I've realised I'm getting old...what to do (regarding cars)?

[BMWZ4MC]

If it were my money C43 convertible or 440i convertible

Good shouts, but the C43 to me is not a proper AMG (AMG light?) and the 4 series I just don't think look pretty (also they are a small 4 seater). M4 yes, but then we are going over-budget and into performance that I don't really want anymore.

I agree about the C43. Driven in isolation it seems alright, albeit not especially fast and with a slightly low rent interior. However, in comparison with the sheer theatre and remarkable track capabilities of the C63, the C43 is not worthy of its AMG badges.

[Pondrew]

This might not be your thing if you think Jags are unreliable, but... Maserati Grancabrio? Probably over budget now.

Seems like all the options have been covered, there aren't a lot of different 4 seater 6+ cylinder convertibles these days. A quick search on autotrader says you can choose from BMW 2/4/6, Audi 5, or a Mercedes E400 (but unfortunately not the newer one that you would probably want).

If you can live with a coupe it opens up more options with a CLS400, C43, newer S5 and one or two M2/4's. C43 coupe would probably be my choice, not that it matters - glorious engine, good interior, looks great. The S5 is tempting for the interior but overall it's a bit dull.

I'd love a Mustang 5.0 but I just couldn't accept the rubbish interior either, in a car that is supposed to feel special.

Thanks, that pretty much sums it up. No Maserati for me. Running costs, build quality, reliability, you name it!

I did briefly look at A/M DB9s, which a few months ago were in budget, but again the reasons above and that I don't want to smoke a pipe put me off! Parts are stupid expensive and they seem to need them often. Do like the idea of an Aston, though. My late dad would be looking down at me with pride if I had one.

[Pondrew]

I agree about the C43. Driven in isolation it seems alright, albeit not especially fast and with a slightly low rent interior. However, in comparison with the sheer theatre and remarkable track capabilities of the C63, the C43 is not worthy of its AMG badges.

Agree with that. I could be seriously tempted by the newer C63S cab; it just looks great and sounds like a Spitfire, but again the whole point is that I am getting old and don't need, or really want a monster of a car and the budget is nowhere near (I have to set a budget otherwise £30K soon becomes £40K, then £50K and so on). One of my problems is that I have money sitting in the bank earning f*ck-all, so it is really tempting to spend it.

[RedUn]

This might not be your thing if you think Jags are unreliable, but... Maserati Grancabrio? Probably over budget now.

Seems like all the options have been covered, there aren't a lot of different 4 seater 6+ cylinder convertibles these days. A quick search on autotrader says you can choose from BMW 2/4/6, Audi 5, or a Mercedes E400 (but unfortunately not the newer one that you would probably want).

If you can live with a coupe it opens up more options with a CLS400, C43, newer S5 and one or two M2/4's. C43 coupe would probably be my choice, not that it matters - glorious engine, good interior, looks great. The S5 is tempting for the interior but overall it's a bit dull.

I'd love a Mustang 5.0 but I just couldn't accept the rubbish interior either, in a car that is supposed to feel special.

Thanks, that pretty much sums it up. No Maserati for me. Running costs, build quality, reliability, you name it!

I did briefly look at A/M DB9s, which a few months ago were in budget, but again the reasons above and that I don't want to smoke a pipe put me off! Parts are stupid expensive and they seem to need them often. Do like the idea of an Aston, though. My late dad would be looking down at me with pride if I had one.

I was going to suggest the DB9...

Other random ideas, Lexus RCF, 5 litre v8.

Big coupe, Panamera?

M6, V10 convertible and 10k in fuel money?

Edit to add, seriously, V8 M3, they are great cars, lots of lovely noises and they are holding their money well at the minute

[Ian J]

This might not be your thing if you think Jags are unreliable, but... Maserati Grancabrio? Probably over budget now.

I had a Maserati on my very short, short list a few years ago and was about to press the "buy" button when I chickened out due to the potentially frightening costs of keeping one on the road as a daily driver

[Pondrew]

I think I may have found my Nirvana. Running costs are going to be pretty eye-watering but as long as I don't drive it, it should be OK. Insurance with my current company is £245 p/a
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-detail ... ars&page=2

[Mr Tidy]

I think I may have found my Nirvana. Running costs are going to be pretty eye-watering but as long as I don't drive it, it should be OK
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-detail ... ars&page=2

Wow - that looks fantastic!

Surely life's too short not to?

[Stevo1987]

I agree about the C43. Driven in isolation it seems alright, albeit not especially fast and with a slightly low rent interior. However, in comparison with the sheer theatre and remarkable track capabilities of the C63, the C43 is not worthy of its AMG badges.

Agree with that. I could be seriously tempted by the newer C63S cab; it just looks great and sounds like a Spitfire, but again the whole point is that I am getting old and don't need, or really want a monster of a car and the budget is nowhere near (I have to set a budget otherwise £30K soon becomes £40K, then £50K and so on). One of my problems is that I have money sitting in the bank earning f*ck-all, so it is really tempting to spend it.

Stocks and shares ISA for spare cash? I am chucking large amounts into my works pension. Loving that tax relief.

[Stevo1987]

I think I may have found my Nirvana. Running costs are going to be pretty eye-watering but as long as I don't drive it, it should be OK. Insurance with my current company is £245 p/a
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-detail ... ars&page=2

Could be fun on the roads where you live.

[mgrlane]

I think I may have found my Nirvana. Running costs are going to be pretty eye-watering but as long as I don't drive it, it should be OK. Insurance with my current company is £245 p/a
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-detail ... ars&page=2

A lot of car for 26k that.

Would take a C63 from the same year over it tho.

[Pondrew]

Would take a C63 from the same year over it tho.

Of course you would (in fact you did)
I showed it to 'er indoors. She said "it's a pretty car but it's orange". I said "I know, isn't it beautiful". She said "No it's chavvy. Another car you will like for 5 minutes. And don't expect me to drive it". So another win

They can be remapped to 679hp and nearly 850Nm of torque for £300. Not sure if the DCT can take that.

[Ole gits rule]

Think you should grab an Aston and say screw the expense

[Pondrew]

Could be fun on the roads where you live.

I am thinking of all the 20 something, leggy Polish women that I could attract
Their boyfriends all drive old Passats and knackered A3s

[mgrlane]

They can be remapped to 679hp and nearly 850Nm of torque for £300. Not sure if the DCT can take that.

Lol that's to much power that.

I can't believe I didn't look at them when I was looking.

Definitely get a well looked after V8 if only for a year and cherish every mile you drive.

(And pray that nothing breaks)

[jamie_z4]

hi,

my neighbour has just bought something that fits your criteria exactly.

a 2014 Audi S5 Convertible 3.0 supercharged V6 333bhp it sounds nice - you can map them to 400bhp and he paid £16500 for it and its only done 43,000 miles with FSH - not sure if its your bag but has quattro etc it handles nicely and has a nice S tronic gearbox