• Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Small car, big personality... Always surprises people with its zany engine sound and dump valve. Says a lot about me, that I like to surprise people!

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Mixed opinions, some say it looks like a shopping trolley! Most just fall in love with it, such is the amazing little engine.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    If they still made them I would! A dying breed.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Something else equally rare and intriguing.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £2,500

    When did you buy the car?

    May 2005

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Bought on internet auction. Car was rare, so finding mine was an achievement in itself!

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Rare 4-wheel drive mini pocket rocket

    What was the dealer like?

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    An absolute hoot to drive. An incomparable driving experience, just has to be driven to be appreciated. The tiny turbocharged 650cc twin-cam 16valve engine revs so freely, and with a body weighing just 700kgs its easily the fastest car I've experienced from 0-30mph.

    What's it like to park?

    Being so tiny its almost possible to park nose to curb.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Gearbox is the major weak-link, this model covered just 54k miles when I bought it, but sadly developed an oil leak from the gearbox.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Its dimensions. Such a miniature car, and so easy to sling around town and thru narrow passes! Wing-mirrors even fold flat to squeeze into tighter spaces.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Limited-slip differential - came as standard on this model, sends power to the rear wheels when accelerating. Much needed as it is so urgent!