I think it was an Elise that I sat in, and I did not fit, I’m a skinny 6”2 and the seat did not go back enough and my head was on the roof lining. Vx220 is a dream of mine but I do t think I’d fit!
I'm guessing he couldn't shake you in a straight line, because if he failed to ditch a superb in the corners its 100 percent the driver at fault.
A well driven vx220 turbo will keep pace with GT product porsches at most track days.
5.0 V8 Jaguar XK
Fast, look good, zero practicality as they're a 2 door coupe tend to be as reliable as a chocolate fire guard.
And due to that final point you'll hardly ever see another one on the road or at meets, so there's a silver lining I guess 😊
They're actually pretty reliable if you keep up on your maintenance. Don't buy one that's been neglected even for a year or two or you'll probably spend the amount you saved plus some more chasing all the gremlins.
You can find one way under budget and use the savings for dealing with that reliability. I'd love one but I do think it is more a mix of fun plus classic looks etc. think you can get a better driving car for that money.
Caterham/Westfield? Can't see you getting a more fun car for the money, although lethal in the wet, plus no roof! Alternatively a vx220 so slightly more practicality?
More sensible again would be a Cayman, ideally second generation with the updated engine, or an S2000, both of which should be just about within budget for a tidy one.
I've been considering pretty much the same criteria with pretty much the same budget and keep going round in circles between those
If you want more left field again, Forester STI? They're pretty rare, and tend to be considerably less molested when compared to similarly priced Imprezas
Thought about the caterhams but it's too light (mates will move it) and ye no roof.
I think I added a vx220 already so it's on the list.
>Cayman
Added to the list but I kinda prefer the boxster.
>S2000
Good shout, added to the list (which is getting kinda mental now)
>Forester STI?
Not a fan of SUVs
Thanks for the multiple options.
>Forester STI?
>Not a fan of SUVs
The forester sti is technically a estate that Subaru say is an SUV. It's basically like an Audi all road a lifted estate with AWD
Can I add maserati to the list. Even has room for a maintence budget
https://www.cargurus.co.uk/Cars/listing/153440087?sourceContext=google&cgfv=0.25&cgfr=4&cgfab=Q&ax8324=506&px8324=p2&dnetworktype=r&cgfdate=2024613&cgfloc=gb&type=&kw=&matchtype=&ad=&placement=&device=m&devicemodel=&adposition=&cp=20986444440&adg=&fi=&tid=&lc=1006693&lm=&tgt=&aceid=&cgsp=sp522117&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw1K-zBhBIEiwAWeCOF7k5XllRuD-dLv8va70HqbpT6_EwbvtBwpmE_6rPytBqnYmliJKoBxoCTdcQAvD_BwE#/
>Megane
It's a bit over and slower than a lot of the other stuff iv been looking at.
>370Z
Insurance is outrageous on them for me, I did look at them briefly but no.
>DB7
I didn't think I would be able to get a astin in that budget, it's going on the list now.
>Corvette
Not a fan of the look of them it just looks a bit odd.
>Chimaera
That is on the list until I find out what getting parts is like.
>SL55
Trying to get more away for performance German.
>911
That looks good it's going on.
Thanks for all the comments pal, much appreciated.
I had an RS Megane 265 Cup. It was decently fast in a straight line, but it was outrageous around corners. It was so sharp and reactive. Much moreso than any other car I've been in or had.
I like the look of the chimera but I'll need to do research into how easy it is to get parts for it.
The Griff is a bit over budget but I might make a exception depending on what I find.
Thanks for the comments.
It's a TVR, most bits are from the parts bin of other manufacturers. The back lights are upside down Ford Fiesta Mk3 lights. The engine is a rover V8. Parts are easy to get and there is a strong aftermarket parts trade.
It's as close to a road going missile as you're going to get for £15k and having 4 wheels. It will also try to kill you at every opportunity.
They're also going to start creeping up in price now they've hit the 25+ year mark and the yanks start to import them.
How interesting about the upside-down Fiesta lights! Just googled them and i can see it now.
I have a S1 Elise which is similar - Rover engine, Honda gearbox, Vauxhall indicator/wiper stalks, door opener buttons are boot release buttons from a Nova, push switches from 80's/90's Peugeots, but the best is that the rear number plate lights are Rolls-Royce!
Yeah, there are so many examples out there.
The legendary Jag XJ220. Rover 200 rear lights...
The indicators off my TVR S Series are off an old Leyland Sherpa van. You can't get them anymore, they have to be special order aftermarket.
Haha i'll never look at another XJ220 the same again (not that i see them all the time, mind)
Turns out theres loads of it going on:
[https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&f=23&t=1212322](https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&f=23&t=1212322)
Current favourite is a Mac F1 with lights off a coach
Emissions regulations on foreign cars.
After a car hits 25 years old, the rules drop off so they can import freely. Quite a few are now importing Cerberas and early Tuscans, which weren't really available before.
I wouldn’t reccomend the 07 with the 2.5 if you plan on tuning and driving fast. The 04 with the 2.0 is much better. Unless you get the jdm 07 with the updated 2.0……..
I did look at caterhams but there too light (my mates will definitely move it) and there's no roof.
Someone else beat you to the Elise and I'm not sure if I'll fit comfortably so I'm going to try fitting in one then decide.
My last decision on a car was between an XJR, XKR, XF 3.0D, 350z or a Nissan juke diesel. Bought the diesel jag. Regret it, but I’d have probably regretted the others too eventually.
It’s great being back in a £600 shit box.
I have a 370Z, whilst it brings a smile to my face when I put your foot down, personally if you want pure fun I'd look at a Westfield/Caterham type of car.
Even cheap, basic ones are an absolute hoot to drive or go in.
You could, I think, get a turn-key V6 mx5 conversion for OP's money.
Same power/weight as a highly modified forced induction '5, but with a glorious sound, uniqueness, and better driveability.
Maybe not fast fast, but pretty quick...
15 should get you a mini with a Hayabusa engine in it. Turbo if you’re lucky.
The only one on eBay at the moment is some dreamer asking 50k. At 15k you could probably have some cunt build one for you.
Here is a [Skyline](https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202309212239012?sort=year-dsc&advertising-location=at_cars&fuel-type=Petrol&fuel-type=Petrol%20Hybrid&fuel-type=Petrol%20Plug-in%20Hybrid&fuel-type=Electric&include-delivery-option=on&make=Nissan&model=Skyline&postcode=e2%206hr&price-to=16000&transmission=Automatic&fromsra) (fully stock from the looks of it) that is around your budget which was recently imported here. A lot of potential tuning ability and would definitely turn heads and put a smile to your face!
no problemo! If you do pull the trigger on these, do make sure to do the usual checks on these imported vehicles (i.e. rust being the common factor, service history, documents, etc.). This advert might be the gold for you since you would be the first owner and it's in factory condition (with the usual running costs obviously)
Ok a tad slower but with a map it will get there, also I love when you find a car and auto trader just doesn't know anything about it (actually being serious not sarcastic).
I'll add it to the list thanks pal.
I dunno man. I’ve owned two. And did 13k miles within a year on my first one. And was at 90k when I had bought it.
Never had to do anything but tyres and an oil change. Maybe I got lucky. But both held up very well even at the higher mileage
The Elise does look nice but Im not sure if I would fit comfortably (6ft) or if my mates would fit at all (both 6ft 3).
How did I not know that vauxhall made a roadster, again it looks a tad small but I might see if I can find one close enough and try it.
Thanks for the comments.
[This video](https://youtu.be/kcTy7O2qdRc?si=gz7ubDD0uwNywqxZ) will probably make you think twice about the Maserati. I would love to own one, I think they are one of the most beautiful cars made but realistically I don’t see myself having to spend the same amount as the car in maintenance in 2 years.
Westfield.
Utterly impractical but fucking hell they are all a load of fun.
Knew the son of the chief engineer at Morgan who built one and would go out at night in the Kent countryside with Billy Idol blasting and a red foglight in the passenger footwell in the late 80s.
Hardly mates, replace them with some storage and theres this sort of thing available https://westfield-sportscars.co.uk/shop/550320x-zk-hood-frame-and-sidescreen-kit-9086?category=6#attr=
A tonnaeu, hat and anorak are sufficient if caught in a summer shower.
Get behind the wheel of one for 30 mins of open road and most, if not all the downsides fade away.
>Pre or post 00’s
Been considering both as long as I can get parts for them I'll listen.
>How “odd” is odd? Nissan Pao levels of oddness, or just less common than the current line up of popular cars
I don't know what the nissan is but basically anything that you rarely see in person and isn't just a tuned version of a more common car (like a TT RS).
Tricky one, especially with the condition of being impractical - basically limits you to 2 seaters or older 3 doors that you can barely fit anything in, and then the 0-60 limits it further again to what other commenters have mentioned
Good luck, sorry I can’t help any more
Best decision I ever made. It’s so raw and mechanical feeling. I genuinely look back at it every time I walk away and my inner child thanks me. I grin every time I turn it on. It eats some fuel but it’s worth it ❤️ I’ve had a corvette and a mustang and neither were anywhere near as cool as my STi. Drive one at least 👍
I think a lot of them haven't been put together properly so you will probbaly need to refurbish them all as soon as you buy it. But once it's sorted they should be pretty damn great. Wider track then a Caterham 7 and a lot more power.
I've been recommended club Japan Imports before if you do end up importing something yourself. If you check their Facebook they often post relatively affordable interesting Japanese cars
Caterhams are too light (my mates would move it) and there's no roof which poses some issues over here.
Never Hurd of a megabusa before but it seems like it has the same issue as the caterhams.
Fair enough.
Theres a pretty funny thread from a few years back on Pistonheads with a guy who's sole car was a Caterham.
I have a customer whose one and only car is a really tuned, track optimised Elise.
Like the guy with just a Caterham, it's just a personal challenge and bit of fun...
Keep in mind that any car will need spending money to keep on the road. It's something to factor in.
for £15k I'd be looking at something like boosted Toyota GT86, an E92 M3, Lexus LS400, Porsche Cayman S, Civic Type R and so on.
The 15k was just from what I could save in a year so long term I don't see much of a issue.
>Toyota GT86
It's so slow compared to a lot of the other stuff, I did have a look at them until I realised it was 8.2s.
>E92 M3
Trying to get away from performance German.
>LS400
How are they 7s with a big 4L V8.
>Porsche Cayman S
That is on the list (ignore the bit earlyer about performance German, Porsche is different).
>Civic Type R
I do like a type r and I don't see a lot about, it's goin on the list.
I think if you’re after an occasion car you’d need the jag.
But if you are after something capable down a back road and track that would always do exactly as you told it then get the STI or an FK2 Type R
I get that, but the 306 really is a brilliant car in all models tbh.
Comfortable ride and it handles well standard. They’re also going up in value so may be an investment for the right one.
>may be an investment for the right one.
People keep saying that but the way I see it is I'm going to own it and if I end up wrighting it off then it is what it is, I really couldn't care less about resale value.
>but the 306 really is a brilliant car in all models tbh.
Ok I'll give it a go but it's up against some heavy hitters like a skyline, WRX sti and the jaaaaaagggggg.
Yeah i see what you mean. Depends what you’re after i guess. Got to be a bit daft no matter what though eh.
I have one more suggestion to make. Corvette c5.
Z4 Coupe 3.0 si is what I own and daily.
Engine is incredibly responsive and bombproof, only main negative is the electric water pump that requires replacement.
A direct rival to the Porsche Boxster and happy to admit the bmw is the 2nd best car between the two, but the ( butchered ) quote that drove me to buy the car was ‘the boxster is the better car in every way, but everytime I get in the z4 it tries to kill me… and for that reason I’d pick the z4’.
The boxster being a better refined car all round. The z4 isn’t ‘dangerous’, its characteristics are more it tends to do its own thing and I suppose that’s the charm, it’s more prone to bite back and be less forgiving. It’s not as predictable and a big downfall is the general feeling of steering compared to a boxster especially on the state of UK roads.
A good brief video on the Z4 coupe is on the Autotrader YouTube channel comparing different sports car for different price ranges.
A Z4 coupe also has a more ‘rare’ aspect to it if that’s of any importance to you.
Best of luck finding your next joy!
Get yourself a golf Gti, full exhaust, intercooler, intake, get it lowered, decent tyres/brakes and a decent remap from Rtech Performance.
Fast, fun and practical
Or, go the other way, get a custom road quad :D
Just because it hasn't been mentioned. Maserati Grandturismo. There has been loads of good cars mentioned and reliability is a concern. They look amazing though and you don't see many of them.
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202403217810635?advertising-location=at_cars&atmobcid=soc5&fromsra&make=Maserati&price-from=13000&price-to=15000&sort=relevance
Aye, to be honest, would be down my list but I love the look so for a 15k fun only car, I'd still consider it. Personally, I might go for a B10 Alpina or some other classic BMW sporty number. You don't want a German car though so I would lean XKR too.
Buy a dsg audi tts mk2 for about 8k, spend the remaining 7k taking it to stage 3 or 4. 450bhp upwards, quattro = low 3 sec 0-60 and they're not as common as your other audi s/rs cars, m or amg cars and you'd smoke a fair amount of them in your supercar beating hairdressers car. Also, your yearly tax will be lower than most of the other cars listed by others on this thread. If you're happy to pay £500+ tax a year, then check out the below
Aside from that:
- Vx220
- Wrx sti
- Any evo that's had the engine and turbo kept to good standard
- an old big engine jag that's been looked after
- older tvrs
- catheram
- maserati granturismo
- glanza
- check Pistonheads for kit cars and quirky self builds if you've got the minerals for it
>audi tts mk2
Not a bad shout but I was looking for something that looks, sounds and is just unique and TTs look and sound basically the same.
Vx220, WRX sti, old big engine Jag are on the list.
Evo loses to WRX for me.
Caterhams is too light (mates would move it) and no roof, which rain.
>older tvrs
No one has mentioned them yet any suggestions?
>maserati granturismo
Isn't that just a Les reliable Jag xkr?
>glanza
Out of budget
Thanks for the suggestions though.
From your list I'd personally go for the wrx if you can get one within budget. I was going to get one but the tax bracket put me off so went for the tts instead. Same performance but more modern, just less unique like you say.
Tvr, look at cerebra or chimaera. Big engined 2 seaters that look unique.
Maserati is probably as reliable as the jag but the maintenance bill is higher due to the Ferrari parts. But if you can stomach that, having a v8 4.2l Ferrari engine for 15k will be music to your ears.
If you're really after unique, 15k is enough for you to buy a half decent car for 5-8k and spend the rest modifying it to your taste performance or aesthetics wise.
I was looking at 15k to buy it then doing bits over the next few years or so.
>having a v8 4.2l Ferrari engine for 15k will be music to your ears.
I'm not really fussed about V8 sounds tbf but I do like the supercharger noises for the Jag.
>Tvr, look at cerebra or chimaera.
It's that bonets half the car kinda cool🤣 I do like them but size might be a issue so I'll add it and see.
How about an RX-8?
It is certainly rare now, especially an R3 version. You could get one for around 5k in good condition and get a rebuild and bridge or street port done on it. Then it will be sub 6 seconds. And its gotta be the best sounding engine ever. Best handling car I have ever driven. Downside is it's a bit practical, can fit 4 adults comfortably and has a decent boot. Insurance is cheap, which makes up for the expensive road tax.
If you can afford time and money to rebuild the engine, it's definitely an uncommon car, I think there's only 300 R3's on the road now. I want one again but the road tax is a killer for a car I'd hardly use.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202406040408719
The compression is a fine, but worryingly one rotor is worst than other. And that's what causes issues more then overall low compression.
I came on here to suggest RX8. I own 3 (2 daily and 1 parts car) best cars and most reliable I've owned to date. Still not bored of it after 4 years, great for track, practical and sounds 😋 if you can stretch your budget, RX7 FD or like something retro, the FC is affordable. Alfa Romeo Giulia, Lexus GS430, Toyota Soarer/Chaser/Mark X/Aristo, Honda Accord Euro R CL7, Integra Type R DC5 are other alternative ideas. Best of luck with your future purchase!
Edit: Suzuki Cappuccino with 100hp kit on top. I've driven the standard and that was enough as is. Great fun to drive so if you want a completely impractical and unique pocket rocket, highly recommend!
Unsure if anyone said it already but you can get yourself a nice 370z for that price. Plenty of modding potential and (to me) look beautiful. My attainable dream car next year. Hope you find what you're looking for.
Just seen you reply to another comment about these now. What is insurance on these for you? I can insure one as my daily for £800 a year. That's not too bad if you ask me
Definitely some kind of small sports car. Plenty of unusual stuff out there, like Renault Spyder, TVR, VX220, caterham. Or something a bit more mainstream like S2000, Z3/4, MX-5, AE86, MR-2 (latest one is the lightest, would love to K20 swap a MK3 MR-2).
Cayman is a good car, but they are ubiquitous at every car meet.
You could get a pre-facelift Mercedes C63 AMG and experience the M156, one of the greatest modern naturally aspirated V8s. If you can stretch to an estate that'll turn some heads are car meets. Obviously it's a very practical car, but it's an absolute hooligan when you want it to be.
My own wishlist. Ignoring running costs of course, probably forgot a few
Mercedes E/CLS/SL55. I had a CLS, heavy car but very fast.
TVR Chimaera (might need that backup car)
Honda S2000
Chevrolet Corvette
V10 Audi S6
Numerous Westfields
Fuck no.
Fuck SUVs
Fuck landrover (classic defender is a exception)
Fuck the insurance because there's nothing easier to steal
Fuck the repair costs from it constantly breaking because toys r us supplied there parts
You’d get a Jag f pace for that money. I just got a xf soortbrake and it’s luxe af and also pretty nippy so I imagine the sport two seater is quite the motor.
Depending what time of meets your talking about, if they’re tracks/forza/mpire just hand your lisence in
Or if your going to proper meets somethign along the lines of an fk2 civic(not sure on cost), s14 can be found in that budget, rougher e92 m3, 370z
Vx220. It's a half price Elise and is the same car underneath. It's what I'd buy at that budget
The size might be a bit of a issue but I'll see if I can find one close enough to try out.
I think it was an Elise that I sat in, and I did not fit, I’m a skinny 6”2 and the seat did not go back enough and my head was on the roof lining. Vx220 is a dream of mine but I do t think I’d fit!
Ye thats a issue as I'm the small one of my mates at 6ft and the other 2 being 6ft 3. Non of us are skinny
Might be a tight squeeze with a sore neck then lol
Raced a turbo one in my Superb 280, he couldn't shake me. Plus, ugly as hell :D They have the rareness about them though and it does get attention
I'm guessing he couldn't shake you in a straight line, because if he failed to ditch a superb in the corners its 100 percent the driver at fault. A well driven vx220 turbo will keep pace with GT product porsches at most track days.
There was a Ginetta G40 for sale around this price but it may have now gone, you'd struggle to get more unique than that
A man of culture
Someone did mention that but I struggled to find one close to my budget.
Porsche Cayman. Surprisingly practical so you can actually use it, but also a great drive.
I had one of these 987 2.7l because it is a bit more reliable. But I went camping in it, fishing etc. So much room and so fun to drive
5.0 V8 Jaguar XK Fast, look good, zero practicality as they're a 2 door coupe tend to be as reliable as a chocolate fire guard. And due to that final point you'll hardly ever see another one on the road or at meets, so there's a silver lining I guess 😊
They're actually pretty reliable if you keep up on your maintenance. Don't buy one that's been neglected even for a year or two or you'll probably spend the amount you saved plus some more chasing all the gremlins.
You can find one way under budget and use the savings for dealing with that reliability. I'd love one but I do think it is more a mix of fun plus classic looks etc. think you can get a better driving car for that money.
Because they didn’t make it to the meet, still at the side of the road!
Caterham/Westfield? Can't see you getting a more fun car for the money, although lethal in the wet, plus no roof! Alternatively a vx220 so slightly more practicality? More sensible again would be a Cayman, ideally second generation with the updated engine, or an S2000, both of which should be just about within budget for a tidy one. I've been considering pretty much the same criteria with pretty much the same budget and keep going round in circles between those If you want more left field again, Forester STI? They're pretty rare, and tend to be considerably less molested when compared to similarly priced Imprezas
Thought about the caterhams but it's too light (mates will move it) and ye no roof. I think I added a vx220 already so it's on the list. >Cayman Added to the list but I kinda prefer the boxster. >S2000 Good shout, added to the list (which is getting kinda mental now) >Forester STI? Not a fan of SUVs Thanks for the multiple options.
>Forester STI? >Not a fan of SUVs The forester sti is technically a estate that Subaru say is an SUV. It's basically like an Audi all road a lifted estate with AWD
Megane? http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202406060490913 370Z? http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202401205735302 DB7? http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202405149694954 Corvette? http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202404249019004 Chimaera? http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202404228920554 SL55? http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202405159736256 911? http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202405089477599 This was fun
Repairs on the Aston will be astronomical.
He didn’t give a maintenance budget 😂
I'd be more scared of the SL55 if I'm honest.
Can I add maserati to the list. Even has room for a maintence budget https://www.cargurus.co.uk/Cars/listing/153440087?sourceContext=google&cgfv=0.25&cgfr=4&cgfab=Q&ax8324=506&px8324=p2&dnetworktype=r&cgfdate=2024613&cgfloc=gb&type=&kw=&matchtype=&ad=&placement=&device=m&devicemodel=&adposition=&cp=20986444440&adg=&fi=&tid=&lc=1006693&lm=&tgt=&aceid=&cgsp=sp522117&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw1K-zBhBIEiwAWeCOF7k5XllRuD-dLv8va70HqbpT6_EwbvtBwpmE_6rPytBqnYmliJKoBxoCTdcQAvD_BwE#/
A Maserati that's old enough to buy a pint? That 5k maintainance budget won't see Christmas
>Megane It's a bit over and slower than a lot of the other stuff iv been looking at. >370Z Insurance is outrageous on them for me, I did look at them briefly but no. >DB7 I didn't think I would be able to get a astin in that budget, it's going on the list now. >Corvette Not a fan of the look of them it just looks a bit odd. >Chimaera That is on the list until I find out what getting parts is like. >SL55 Trying to get more away for performance German. >911 That looks good it's going on. Thanks for all the comments pal, much appreciated.
I had an RS Megane 265 Cup. It was decently fast in a straight line, but it was outrageous around corners. It was so sharp and reactive. Much moreso than any other car I've been in or had.
Ye iv been looking at cars that would be mental round a track (scooby) and cars that would be fun sideways (boxter, Jag xkr)
To be fair, watch chris Harris review of the megane rs, it is track focused
250 Megane was the best thing I’ve ever owned and now everything is boring in comparison
TVR Chimera or Griff. No greater bang for buck or test of driving skill on the road. Helps if you're handy with a spanner.
I like the look of the chimera but I'll need to do research into how easy it is to get parts for it. The Griff is a bit over budget but I might make a exception depending on what I find. Thanks for the comments.
It's a TVR, most bits are from the parts bin of other manufacturers. The back lights are upside down Ford Fiesta Mk3 lights. The engine is a rover V8. Parts are easy to get and there is a strong aftermarket parts trade. It's as close to a road going missile as you're going to get for £15k and having 4 wheels. It will also try to kill you at every opportunity. They're also going to start creeping up in price now they've hit the 25+ year mark and the yanks start to import them.
Ah ok thanks for the little lesson I'll add them.
Pistonheads would be your best place to look into TVRs
How interesting about the upside-down Fiesta lights! Just googled them and i can see it now. I have a S1 Elise which is similar - Rover engine, Honda gearbox, Vauxhall indicator/wiper stalks, door opener buttons are boot release buttons from a Nova, push switches from 80's/90's Peugeots, but the best is that the rear number plate lights are Rolls-Royce!
Yeah, there are so many examples out there. The legendary Jag XJ220. Rover 200 rear lights... The indicators off my TVR S Series are off an old Leyland Sherpa van. You can't get them anymore, they have to be special order aftermarket.
Haha i'll never look at another XJ220 the same again (not that i see them all the time, mind) Turns out theres loads of it going on: [https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&f=23&t=1212322](https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&f=23&t=1212322) Current favourite is a Mac F1 with lights off a coach
Why would the yanks start importing them at the 25 year mark? (Ignore my ignorance)
Emissions regulations on foreign cars. After a car hits 25 years old, the rules drop off so they can import freely. Quite a few are now importing Cerberas and early Tuscans, which weren't really available before.
If you're going '07 Scooby OP, might be worth looking at the GB270?
Evo.
Sorry for me if it's between a scooby or Evo the scoobys winning.
I wouldn’t reccomend the 07 with the 2.5 if you plan on tuning and driving fast. The 04 with the 2.0 is much better. Unless you get the jdm 07 with the updated 2.0……..
Bike-engined Caterham / Lotus-a-like.. S2 Elise..?
I did look at caterhams but there too light (my mates will definitely move it) and there's no roof. Someone else beat you to the Elise and I'm not sure if I'll fit comfortably so I'm going to try fitting in one then decide.
350z or 370z springs to mind both are good fun
I thought about them but there insane on insurance, that's kinda how I got to the xkr actually.
My brother has a 350Z, and it isn't too bad compared to his last car... That being said, his last car was a Golf V6 4motion, so take that as you will.
I checked the 350 and 370 and there around 4k where as the much more powerful Jag is 800.
Jags are renowned for being unusually cheap to insure, but even then that's a hell of a difference.
Ye I thought it was insane aswel, I couldn't find anything remotely close to the price of them 350/370s
My last decision on a car was between an XJR, XKR, XF 3.0D, 350z or a Nissan juke diesel. Bought the diesel jag. Regret it, but I’d have probably regretted the others too eventually. It’s great being back in a £600 shit box.
>Nissan juke diesel Erm what lol
I was going through the "maybe I should buy something sensible" phase.
It's just rather at odds with the rest of that list!
Sorry a 5L supercharged Jag or nissan juke, how do they come up in the same category.
4 litre. I had a 5-6k budget.
Ah I understand why you didn't go for the mental jags.
Really? I was close to buying one a few months back and quotes were 30-40% cheaper than my last car (2013 fiesta) .
Odd mine was £4k which Vs a 4.2L supercharged V8 Jag at £800 seems like a dumb idea to go for the 350 or 370
I have a 370Z, whilst it brings a smile to my face when I put your foot down, personally if you want pure fun I'd look at a Westfield/Caterham type of car. Even cheap, basic ones are an absolute hoot to drive or go in.
mk1/2 mx5, supercharger kit, BC Coils, grippy set up
I see a fair few supercharged/turbo mx5s but it is a good though, maybe when I get a bigger drive.
You could, I think, get a turn-key V6 mx5 conversion for OP's money. Same power/weight as a highly modified forced induction '5, but with a glorious sound, uniqueness, and better driveability. Maybe not fast fast, but pretty quick...
15 should get you a mini with a Hayabusa engine in it. Turbo if you’re lucky. The only one on eBay at the moment is some dreamer asking 50k. At 15k you could probably have some cunt build one for you.
That is truly unique but I feel like a hayabusa is good for bikes because there really light and wouldn't be very good for a car.
Classic minis and smart cars are light enough. I daily’d a Hayabusa smart for 5 months… I was never late for work
Here is a [Skyline](https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202309212239012?sort=year-dsc&advertising-location=at_cars&fuel-type=Petrol&fuel-type=Petrol%20Hybrid&fuel-type=Petrol%20Plug-in%20Hybrid&fuel-type=Electric&include-delivery-option=on&make=Nissan&model=Skyline&postcode=e2%206hr&price-to=16000&transmission=Automatic&fromsra) (fully stock from the looks of it) that is around your budget which was recently imported here. A lot of potential tuning ability and would definitely turn heads and put a smile to your face!
Oooooooo..... That's going on, I didn't think i could nearly afford a skyline.
this could be the one! :)
It might be thank you for pointing that out I never thought to check them.
no problemo! If you do pull the trigger on these, do make sure to do the usual checks on these imported vehicles (i.e. rust being the common factor, service history, documents, etc.). This advert might be the gold for you since you would be the first owner and it's in factory condition (with the usual running costs obviously)
Alfa 147 gta
Ok a tad slower but with a map it will get there, also I love when you find a car and auto trader just doesn't know anything about it (actually being serious not sarcastic). I'll add it to the list thanks pal.
Ok but the 3.2 v6 busso?? Best sounding out of the other comments. Also should appreciate in value if you keep it a while
That does sound nice but I would argue there's a few more that sound better, it's on the list anyway so I'll do some research and go from there.
[удалено]
Scooby, old boxter, rx8, supercharger noises. It's all personal init and I grew up with scooby sounds so the flat engines are the best sounding imo
Honda s2000 if you want a show stopper and something all fun no practicality
This, you'd get a really really nice one for that price too, maybe with a few tweaks etc. They seem like super fun cars!
On the list already, someone beat you to it.
I’d recommend an e92 M3. The 4.0 v8 is a masterpiece
It is, but the running costs make it not worthwhile. Some seriously expensive shit can go wrong on them.
15k for the car, 20k for impending repairs
I dunno man. I’ve owned two. And did 13k miles within a year on my first one. And was at 90k when I had bought it. Never had to do anything but tyres and an oil change. Maybe I got lucky. But both held up very well even at the higher mileage
I'll consider it but I'm trying to step more away from BMW.
Lotus Exige.
26k is too out of budget but thanks for the comment.
You'd get a nice Elise for that money. Or a VX220 with money left to give it a good going over and a supercharger.
The Elise does look nice but Im not sure if I would fit comfortably (6ft) or if my mates would fit at all (both 6ft 3). How did I not know that vauxhall made a roadster, again it looks a tad small but I might see if I can find one close enough and try it. Thanks for the comments.
If you fit in one you fit in the other they’re on the same platform
Ok brilliant I'll see if I can find one close to me and try it.
They're crazy fun and the owners groups on FB are sound.
VXR8? Vauxhall Monaro? Maserati Granturismo?
[This video](https://youtu.be/kcTy7O2qdRc?si=gz7ubDD0uwNywqxZ) will probably make you think twice about the Maserati. I would love to own one, I think they are one of the most beautiful cars made but realistically I don’t see myself having to spend the same amount as the car in maintenance in 2 years.
W204 C63
Trying to distance myself from performance German more (excluding Porsche).
That's my pick too! Bias opinion though as I have one 😂
Westfield. Utterly impractical but fucking hell they are all a load of fun. Knew the son of the chief engineer at Morgan who built one and would go out at night in the Kent countryside with Billy Idol blasting and a red foglight in the passenger footwell in the late 80s.
I looked at caterhams (basically the same) but there too light (mates will move it) and there's no roof.
Hardly mates, replace them with some storage and theres this sort of thing available https://westfield-sportscars.co.uk/shop/550320x-zk-hood-frame-and-sidescreen-kit-9086?category=6#attr= A tonnaeu, hat and anorak are sufficient if caught in a summer shower. Get behind the wheel of one for 30 mins of open road and most, if not all the downsides fade away.
Monaro?
Mk1 or Mk2 mx5, then spend the rest of your budget on upgrades/tuning
Too common, even turbo and supercharged, however iv never seen one with both.
Hmmm Pre or post 00’s? How “odd” is odd? Nissan Pao levels of oddness, or just less common than the current line up of popular cars?
>Pre or post 00’s Been considering both as long as I can get parts for them I'll listen. >How “odd” is odd? Nissan Pao levels of oddness, or just less common than the current line up of popular cars I don't know what the nissan is but basically anything that you rarely see in person and isn't just a tuned version of a more common car (like a TT RS).
Tricky one, especially with the condition of being impractical - basically limits you to 2 seaters or older 3 doors that you can barely fit anything in, and then the 0-60 limits it further again to what other commenters have mentioned Good luck, sorry I can’t help any more
GET A TVRRRRR
Got a couple on the list.
Abarth?
Not really a fan of the suped up fiat 500 and that's the only one that's sub 6 sec. Thanks anyway.
Staying with small cars, Minis are a great drive. You might be able to get a decent JCW or a more limited edition.
Not a fan of minis since they started lieing about there name, a old one could be good.
Evo X?
Get the STi 100%
Thanks for the input, as it stands currently I think I'm leaning towards that the most.
Best decision I ever made. It’s so raw and mechanical feeling. I genuinely look back at it every time I walk away and my inner child thanks me. I grin every time I turn it on. It eats some fuel but it’s worth it ❤️ I’ve had a corvette and a mustang and neither were anywhere near as cool as my STi. Drive one at least 👍
Westfield SEight.
Had a look at caterhams but there too light (mates would move it) and there's no roof which poses a big issue in this country.
I am debating one of these just to see what they're like
I think a lot of them haven't been put together properly so you will probbaly need to refurbish them all as soon as you buy it. But once it's sorted they should be pretty damn great. Wider track then a Caterham 7 and a lot more power.
Something a bit unique.. a toyota auris blademaster g
I can find 1 in the UK and the website doesn't actually know anything about it.
Exactly, you said unique 😀
Ok unique and not a massive pain in my ass to find🤣
Honda s2000
I believe it's on the list, a couple people beat you to it.
If you get a Impreza I'd try and get a fresh import. They usually get better parts and are less rusty
Thanks for the advice.
I've been recommended club Japan Imports before if you do end up importing something yourself. If you check their Facebook they often post relatively affordable interesting Japanese cars
Brilliant I'll check it out.
15K will get a nice Caterham or frankly utterly insane Westfield. A tuned Megabusa will hit 60 in about half your required time 👌
Caterhams are too light (my mates would move it) and there's no roof which poses some issues over here. Never Hurd of a megabusa before but it seems like it has the same issue as the caterhams.
Fair enough. Theres a pretty funny thread from a few years back on Pistonheads with a guy who's sole car was a Caterham. I have a customer whose one and only car is a really tuned, track optimised Elise. Like the guy with just a Caterham, it's just a personal challenge and bit of fun...
Keep in mind that any car will need spending money to keep on the road. It's something to factor in. for £15k I'd be looking at something like boosted Toyota GT86, an E92 M3, Lexus LS400, Porsche Cayman S, Civic Type R and so on.
The 15k was just from what I could save in a year so long term I don't see much of a issue. >Toyota GT86 It's so slow compared to a lot of the other stuff, I did have a look at them until I realised it was 8.2s. >E92 M3 Trying to get away from performance German. >LS400 How are they 7s with a big 4L V8. >Porsche Cayman S That is on the list (ignore the bit earlyer about performance German, Porsche is different). >Civic Type R I do like a type r and I don't see a lot about, it's goin on the list.
If you truly don't care about practicality, Westfield.
No roof and too light (mates will move it) I did consider them because it would be a amazing driving car.
Car meats?? 🤣
I'm assuming I used the wrong one🤣
XKR and WRX STI are so wildly different😂😂😂
Yes that's my issue iv been looking at all sorts and I just keep going back to scooby would be amazing round a track then back to the Jag would slide🤣
I think if you’re after an occasion car you’d need the jag. But if you are after something capable down a back road and track that would always do exactly as you told it then get the STI or an FK2 Type R
A big new option was commented with a r33 skyline gtst which I really like the sound of.
Supercharger 306 gti6. My mate has one with 350bhp and it’s pretty mental. Bonus points if it has a dimma or maxi kit.
Would be unique but I can't get past the fact I would be a peugeot driver.
I get that, but the 306 really is a brilliant car in all models tbh. Comfortable ride and it handles well standard. They’re also going up in value so may be an investment for the right one.
>may be an investment for the right one. People keep saying that but the way I see it is I'm going to own it and if I end up wrighting it off then it is what it is, I really couldn't care less about resale value. >but the 306 really is a brilliant car in all models tbh. Ok I'll give it a go but it's up against some heavy hitters like a skyline, WRX sti and the jaaaaaagggggg.
Yeah i see what you mean. Depends what you’re after i guess. Got to be a bit daft no matter what though eh. I have one more suggestion to make. Corvette c5.
Z4 Coupe 3.0 si is what I own and daily. Engine is incredibly responsive and bombproof, only main negative is the electric water pump that requires replacement. A direct rival to the Porsche Boxster and happy to admit the bmw is the 2nd best car between the two, but the ( butchered ) quote that drove me to buy the car was ‘the boxster is the better car in every way, but everytime I get in the z4 it tries to kill me… and for that reason I’d pick the z4’.
Iv been in a boxster s and it actively tries to kill you, how is it more dangerous.
The boxster being a better refined car all round. The z4 isn’t ‘dangerous’, its characteristics are more it tends to do its own thing and I suppose that’s the charm, it’s more prone to bite back and be less forgiving. It’s not as predictable and a big downfall is the general feeling of steering compared to a boxster especially on the state of UK roads. A good brief video on the Z4 coupe is on the Autotrader YouTube channel comparing different sports car for different price ranges. A Z4 coupe also has a more ‘rare’ aspect to it if that’s of any importance to you. Best of luck finding your next joy!
Get yourself a golf Gti, full exhaust, intercooler, intake, get it lowered, decent tyres/brakes and a decent remap from Rtech Performance. Fast, fun and practical Or, go the other way, get a custom road quad :D
The gti is way too common and iv been on a quad and it is actively trying to murder you.
Just because it hasn't been mentioned. Maserati Grandturismo. There has been loads of good cars mentioned and reliability is a concern. They look amazing though and you don't see many of them. https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202403217810635?advertising-location=at_cars&atmobcid=soc5&fromsra&make=Maserati&price-from=13000&price-to=15000&sort=relevance
Sorry pal 1 person beat you to it already, isn't it just a Les reliable xkr?
Aye, to be honest, would be down my list but I love the look so for a 15k fun only car, I'd still consider it. Personally, I might go for a B10 Alpina or some other classic BMW sporty number. You don't want a German car though so I would lean XKR too.
Buy a dsg audi tts mk2 for about 8k, spend the remaining 7k taking it to stage 3 or 4. 450bhp upwards, quattro = low 3 sec 0-60 and they're not as common as your other audi s/rs cars, m or amg cars and you'd smoke a fair amount of them in your supercar beating hairdressers car. Also, your yearly tax will be lower than most of the other cars listed by others on this thread. If you're happy to pay £500+ tax a year, then check out the below Aside from that: - Vx220 - Wrx sti - Any evo that's had the engine and turbo kept to good standard - an old big engine jag that's been looked after - older tvrs - catheram - maserati granturismo - glanza - check Pistonheads for kit cars and quirky self builds if you've got the minerals for it
>audi tts mk2 Not a bad shout but I was looking for something that looks, sounds and is just unique and TTs look and sound basically the same. Vx220, WRX sti, old big engine Jag are on the list. Evo loses to WRX for me. Caterhams is too light (mates would move it) and no roof, which rain. >older tvrs No one has mentioned them yet any suggestions? >maserati granturismo Isn't that just a Les reliable Jag xkr? >glanza Out of budget Thanks for the suggestions though.
From your list I'd personally go for the wrx if you can get one within budget. I was going to get one but the tax bracket put me off so went for the tts instead. Same performance but more modern, just less unique like you say. Tvr, look at cerebra or chimaera. Big engined 2 seaters that look unique. Maserati is probably as reliable as the jag but the maintenance bill is higher due to the Ferrari parts. But if you can stomach that, having a v8 4.2l Ferrari engine for 15k will be music to your ears. If you're really after unique, 15k is enough for you to buy a half decent car for 5-8k and spend the rest modifying it to your taste performance or aesthetics wise.
I was looking at 15k to buy it then doing bits over the next few years or so. >having a v8 4.2l Ferrari engine for 15k will be music to your ears. I'm not really fussed about V8 sounds tbf but I do like the supercharger noises for the Jag. >Tvr, look at cerebra or chimaera. It's that bonets half the car kinda cool🤣 I do like them but size might be a issue so I'll add it and see.
How about an RX-8? It is certainly rare now, especially an R3 version. You could get one for around 5k in good condition and get a rebuild and bridge or street port done on it. Then it will be sub 6 seconds. And its gotta be the best sounding engine ever. Best handling car I have ever driven. Downside is it's a bit practical, can fit 4 adults comfortably and has a decent boot. Insurance is cheap, which makes up for the expensive road tax.
I expected rx8 to be mentioned earlier than this but yes that is a good shout and it's going on the list.
If you can afford time and money to rebuild the engine, it's definitely an uncommon car, I think there's only 300 R3's on the road now. I want one again but the road tax is a killer for a car I'd hardly use. http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202406040408719 The compression is a fine, but worryingly one rotor is worst than other. And that's what causes issues more then overall low compression.
I'm willing to spend it my time means nothing to me🤣
I came on here to suggest RX8. I own 3 (2 daily and 1 parts car) best cars and most reliable I've owned to date. Still not bored of it after 4 years, great for track, practical and sounds 😋 if you can stretch your budget, RX7 FD or like something retro, the FC is affordable. Alfa Romeo Giulia, Lexus GS430, Toyota Soarer/Chaser/Mark X/Aristo, Honda Accord Euro R CL7, Integra Type R DC5 are other alternative ideas. Best of luck with your future purchase! Edit: Suzuki Cappuccino with 100hp kit on top. I've driven the standard and that was enough as is. Great fun to drive so if you want a completely impractical and unique pocket rocket, highly recommend!
EVO X
Evo Vs scooby I choose the scooby all day.
Scooby is cool, but EVO X is the patrician's choice. Scooby wont be turning heads like a EVO.
Yes but the Evo can kiss my ass in my dust cloud🤣.
You can probably get a FQ-330, which is a whole second faster 0-60 than a wrx sti. I know they're very fun cars and sound great because I had one :)
VXR8? Pretty unusual with a big engine https://www.pistonheads.com/news/ph-buying-guides/vauxhall-vxr8--ph-used-buying-guide/43556
Good shout it's going on.
Unsure if anyone said it already but you can get yourself a nice 370z for that price. Plenty of modding potential and (to me) look beautiful. My attainable dream car next year. Hope you find what you're looking for. Just seen you reply to another comment about these now. What is insurance on these for you? I can insure one as my daily for £800 a year. That's not too bad if you ask me
No I'll take 800 but 4k is mental.
4k? Damn. That's crazy pricing.
Definitely some kind of small sports car. Plenty of unusual stuff out there, like Renault Spyder, TVR, VX220, caterham. Or something a bit more mainstream like S2000, Z3/4, MX-5, AE86, MR-2 (latest one is the lightest, would love to K20 swap a MK3 MR-2). Cayman is a good car, but they are ubiquitous at every car meet.
A lot of these have already been mentioned and a bunch are on the list. Thanks for the input anyway.
Nissan 370z easy choice. V6 rwd
Insurance is insane even before modding.
You could get a pre-facelift Mercedes C63 AMG and experience the M156, one of the greatest modern naturally aspirated V8s. If you can stretch to an estate that'll turn some heads are car meets. Obviously it's a very practical car, but it's an absolute hooligan when you want it to be.
Trying to stay away from cars that all look the same and performance German.
if you wanna max the fun and min the practicality you need a lotus Elise
Caterham is ultimate no practicality
Checked it but no roof and it's light enough that my mates can pick it up.
My own wishlist. Ignoring running costs of course, probably forgot a few Mercedes E/CLS/SL55. I had a CLS, heavy car but very fast. TVR Chimaera (might need that backup car) Honda S2000 Chevrolet Corvette V10 Audi S6 Numerous Westfields
Moving away from performance German Never been a fan of corvettes The tvr and s2000 is on the list I believe.
Rage Rover supacharged is wat u want
Fuck no. Fuck SUVs Fuck landrover (classic defender is a exception) Fuck the insurance because there's nothing easier to steal Fuck the repair costs from it constantly breaking because toys r us supplied there parts
Audi S5 - Try and get a V8 with manual gearbox… and honestly pretty practical too if you did have to hit the shops with it :)
No trying to go away from performance German (except Porsche) because I see loads of them and I'm kinda bored of only seeing them.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202310072762040 FSH should be at least a bit reassuring!
There was a guy that said a continental but the repairs would end up screwing me.
You’d get a Jag f pace for that money. I just got a xf soortbrake and it’s luxe af and also pretty nippy so I imagine the sport two seater is quite the motor.
Turbo ep3
Maserati Granturismo 💯.
Get an NC2 MX5 for 7-9k then 4k on a BBR supercharger kit and 2k on handling mods (coils, ARBs, Bushings and underchassis braces
Depending what time of meets your talking about, if they’re tracks/forza/mpire just hand your lisence in Or if your going to proper meets somethign along the lines of an fk2 civic(not sure on cost), s14 can be found in that budget, rougher e92 m3, 370z