All-Electric Fiat 500 Atomik at Salon Privé

The annual Salon Privé, a luxury supercar event and Concours d'Elégance that takes place this year in London from 21-23 July, will be hosting the UK debut of the all-electric Atomik 500.

Created by Paris-based maker, Atomik Cars, the Fiat-500 based model gets two electric motors, one up front producing 80kW and 840Nm (619 lb-ft), and one at the rear that makes the same power but a whopping 1,710 Nm (1,261 lb-ft) of peak torque.

Combined, the two electric motors punch out 160 kW (215 hp) and an unadjusted 2,550 Nm (1,880 lb-ft) of torque split 33/67 front to rear.

The company says that the 1,400kg 500 EV can hit 100km/h (62mph) from rest in less than 5 seconds, complete the 0-1,000 meter sprint in 26 seconds and achieve a top speed of around 200 km/h (electric cutoff is at 180 km/h), while providing a range of 200 km (124 miles).

The Smart ForFour

forfourThe first Smart four seater sedans with four doors was called the Smart ForFour and was introduced in 2003. The Smart Forfour was introduced to the media in Zürich, Switzerland, on "ForFour Day," June 26, 2003. Unlike the little "brother," this four-seater sedan was a more conventional car, a real hatchback super-mini with a roomy interior with a four- or five-seat configuration. The four seat sedan Smart was produced at the NedCar factory in the Netherlands in conjunction with Mitsubishi Motors, the same factory that produced the Volvo 340 in 1970s and 1980s.





This top sedan was co-developed with Daimler Chrysler, and shared 60% of its parts with the Mitsubishi Colt.

Significantly lower and shorter than its Mitsubishi Colt sister car, the new sedan design of the new For-Four followed the themes set by previous smart models such as the city coupe and roadster.

smart_44stralightsliver

Rather than pursuing a simple platform strategy, the approach used was based on the intelligent use of shared components.

To save production costs, new sedan shared the chassis, suspensions, and a new generation of the MIVEC engine. The available cdi diesel engine was a three-cylinder Mercedes-Benz engine derived from the four-cylinder model of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

It was reported in 2004 that the sedan vehicleSmart Forfour was designed to pass all U.S. safety and emissions regulations.

The Smart ForFour interior offered infinite configurations for drivers, passengers and cargo.

A Brabus-prepared sports version was available in 2005. It is powered by a turbocharged Mitsubishi engine, developing 177 hp. Its price in Germany was $31,954. These exciting new cars give customers the performance potential of a sports car.

These cars were aimed squarely at the future and engineered by the greatest intellectuals in the automotive world.a-smart-4door.jpg
The Smart ForFour was expressive and functional. The styling, driving capability, high fuel mileage and low emissions make these cars stand out from the crowd.

These cars are aimed squarely at the future and engineered by the greatest intellectuals in the automotive world.
Customers could choose two design and equipment lines (Pulse and Passion).

The "Pulse " line offered a full range of high-quality features as standard, whereas "Passion" caters to the highest comfort requirements
colt_smart_44.jpg

The Smart For-Four interior offered infinite configurations. The styling, driving capability, high fuel mileage and low emissions made these cars stand out from the crowd.
The Smart ForFour was jointly based on the DaimlerChrysler electrics and electronics platform. The new Smart was the first vehicle from the joint DaimlerChrysler/Mitsubishi Z-car project, based on the new Japanese Colt (left) subcompact, which will also include the European Colt.
Also on the Smart ForFour the customer could choose between the roof in synthetic material, the roof "Panorama" in crystal and the sun-roof electrical worker in glass.

In 2005 Mitsubishi Motors Corp and DaimlerChrysler halted production .

The two automakers had been in talks on ending production of the compact car, after DaimlerChrysler decided to stop making the model as part of its restructuring efforts.

2005 Smart ForFour review Source www.carenthusiast.co.uk

It was inevitable that, having established a foothold in the micro car market, Smart would seek to expand. Tiny, but fun sports cars followed and have been greeted warmly by the image conscious and small car enthusiasts alike. From there, the only way is up and so Smart now finds itself entering into the more conventional car world.

Smart Forfour review

It was inevitable that, having established a foothold in the micro car market, Smart would seek to expand. Tiny, but fun sports cars followed and have been greeted warmly by the image conscious and small car enthusiasts alike. From there, the only way is up and so Smart now finds itself entering into the more conventional car world. To do this Smart has co-developed its larger offering, the ForFour, with Mitsubishi, a company with a proven track record in developing and selling decent small cars. The first Smart could be sold as a cleverly packaged city car, but the ForFour has nowhere to hide, staring straight down the barrels of the shotgun that is the cutthroat super-mini market. How does it fare?

As with other Smarts the unique selling point of the ForFour is its looks. The Smart is completely different to anything else from any angle, anything else apart from another Smart that is. Most models feature a two-colour layout with our test car having the "Tridion" safety cell highlighted in silver, with bright red main panels, which are plastic incidentally. A total of 30 exterior combinations are available across three trim levels (for a full selection have a look at the suitably modern and efficient brand website: www.thesmart.co.uk), although for the more modest an all black version, imaginatively named "black" is also available. The quad lamp treatment is reminiscent of the other, more famous, DaimlerChrysler brand, i.e. Mercedes, and may be an attempt to build more of an association between the brands as Smart push up into the super-mini market. Whether this signals intent to go even larger remains to be seen.


Whilst not to all tastes, the styling ensures that the ForFour stands out in the relatively sombre super-mini market and will be enough to sell cars on that basis alone. If the exterior doesn't sway you, then the interior might. I can only think of one potential rival to the ForFour in this aspect, unsurprisingly it would be arch rival BMW's Mini. Only the Mini would offer the same high quality standard of trim materials and textures. What the Mini can't do is compete with the style of the Smart; conventional items such as the stereo become focal points. The multi-layered contoured dash, in this case complete with the remote instrument pods, is streets ahead of most other market offerings, as are the array of trim colours and the mixtures involved. It's a stylists dream, mostly lost on reserved journalists, but those in the know say that it is indeed very cool.

Whilst I have no claim to the Laurence Llewellyn-Bowen aspects of car design I can tell you that the interior is well equipped and quite roomy. The front seats are comfortable and supportive and definitely a sporty design, but with a typically Smart twist. They fold flat to offer what Smart calls the "lounge" effect. A real boon for picnics etc, but how much use they'd get in the real world I'm not sure. The rear bench seat can be slid fore and aft to free up more legroom or luggage space as needed. The other innovative interior feature fitted to our test car was a full panoramic glass roof, which makes the cabin very light whilst also offering stargazers a good view.

The sporty interior is reflected in the driving experience. The ForFour is no warm hatch, but the 1.3-litre 4-pot does its best to add to the fun. It pumps out a relatively high 95bhp and 92lb.ft, which is more than most competitors' larger engines manage. This gives the ForFour a 0-60mph time of 10.8 seconds and a maximum of 112mph. Those who want more power can opt for the punchier 1.5-litre petrol; the frugal amongst you have the choice of two good common rail units. The five speed 'box is a slick shifting short throw unit marred only by a slight notchiness, but nothing that spoils the fun. The steering is a little light, as are the pedals, but in context of the prospective purchasers this had to be expected. You can chuck the ForFour around and have a bit of a giggle, but it is more of an urbanite than a B-road thriller, although it does offer reasonable motorway refinement as long as you keep the cruising speed below 80mph, above which the 1.3 betrays its size and becomes a little vocal.

The middle pedal offers good stopping power thanks to the all-round disc set-up backed up with ABS and EBD. Following the early stammers on the safety of the ForTwo Smart now makes sure its cars are class leading in terms of safety as well as style. This car features numerous dynamic driver aids plus a rake of airbags as well as that highlighted Tridion safety cell. All of this is an essential addition to the main core of the package: the image.

If you want an individual fun car the ForFour is one of the best options in the market place at the price. This style comes at a premium, but for many the price will be worth paying. Considering the level of engineering, equipment and quality the ForFour should appeal to people other than the fashion conscious as well. It isn't a stand out innovative car like say the Honda Jazz, but it is still a very competent super-mini that will appeal to a broad spectrum of the buying public.

Source www.carenthusiast.co.uk Dave Jenkins - 26 Feb 2005

2005 Smart ForFour specifications: (1.3 Passion manual)
Price: £11,370 on-the-road. 0-62mph: 10.8 seconds
Top speed: 112mph Combined economy: 48.7mpg
Emissions: 138g/km Kerb weight: 970kg

Performance, emissions & economy

* Top speed (mph): 112
* 0-62 mph (seconds): 10.8

* Urban mpg: 38.2
* Extra urban mpg: 58.9
* Combined mpg: 48.7
* CO2 (g/km): 138


Dimensions & weights
Length (mm): 3752

* Height (mm): 1450
* Width (mm): 1684
* Wheelbase (mm): 2500
* Front track (mm): 1460
* Rear track (mm): 1445
* Cargo volume (litres): 268
* Gross weight (kg): 1455
* Kerb weight (kg): 970
* Max. braked trailer weight (kg): 750
* Max. unbraked trailer weight (kg): 500
* Fuel tank capacity (litres): 47


Engine & transmission

Engine: Four cylinder petrol, in line, transversely mounted in front.

Management: Emissions control to Euro 4.

* Cubic capacity (cc): 1332
* Compression ratio: 10.50:1
* Bore x stroke (mm): 75.00 x 75.40
* Max. power (bhp): 95
* Max. torque (lb.ft): 92 at 4000 rpm


Transmission: Five-speed manual gearbox, driving through the front wheels. Single-plate dry clutch.

Chassis & running gear

Turning circle diameter (m): 10.50

Beijing 2010: Ferrari 599 GTO

Ferrari 599XX laps the Nurburgring – Click above to watch video after the jump

We know what the detractors say. We've heard all the arguments that claim Nürburgring times are worthless because of the infinitely changing variables that shift from one day to the next. We know that different cars driven by different drivers will produce vastly different results, and that measuring manhood by whipping out your Nürburgring track times isn't exactly comparing apples to apples. That's okay. We just don't care.

Why? Because as long as manufacturers are willing to do battle by flogging their latest wares around Green Hell, we get to enjoy delicious videos like the one after the jump. You see, Ferrari has just broken the seven-minute barrier for production cars by laying down a scorching 6 minute, 58.16 second lap time around one of the world's most grueling courses in the new 599XX.

Watching the 700 horsepower beast devour the German tarmac is mesmerizing, as is the sound of that melodious V12. If, like us, you were wondering why Ferrari was keeping its mouth shut while manufacturers like Nissan, Chevrolet and Dodge laid claim to previous records, now you know. Go ahead and say goodbye to your productivity, hop the jump and enjoy the show.

Only one question remains. How long has Ferrari been employing demi-gods like test-driver Raffaele De Simone?

Beijing 2010: Ferrari 599 GTO

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How to buy a used car

How to buy a used car - How can a used car when buying a car to buy have potential pitfalls - but it should not be a painful experience if you are a simple set of rules and check.

We bring you the essential guide for buying a used car.

Do your research

It is important to thoroughly research before buying a used car. To search for used car listings to find what you need for the model you are looking to pay. It saves you pay excessive prices, and if the price is low, be careful.

It is also important to set a budget and include insurance, road tax and other expenses, if your calculations.

If you choose a loan, it is important that you shop around for the lowest prices.

Call the Seller

Make a list of questions to the seller, and taking notes. You need the seller:

Calling the sellerHow have long possessed the car?
One car had the last MOT?
Is it necessary?
What condition is the car?
Why are they selling?
The car was involved in an accident?
What are the characteristics of the car you?
Is it in good condition?

And before you hang up, it's a good idea to see if the vendor to check on the price of the vehicle and flexible to use a fixed number for the seller.

Vehicle Check

If you have a bit of research. One form of the Data Control vehicle is the smartest investment you make when buying a car.

This analysis showed that if the car is reported stolen, has finance its outstanding (prior to settlement if it is still dominated by the financial institution belongs to him) are written off or scrapped, and that the full specification of the vehicle targets .

It also shows the price you can expect to pay for the vehicle before buying.

You'll also be able to identify this vehicle to see, so you can match the numbers on the vehicle itself (often) under the windscreen or on the floor beside the driver found.

Click here for more details, vehicle checks and how to obtain them.

Attendance

Always to the seller at their own university. Do not settle into a motorway service station fair, a picnic area or an address outside, where they live. Check the address is the same as on the V5C document.

Leaving you with you note in the notes when you call the will of the seller. This way you can see details such as mileage and taxes are the same as you told during the interview.

Revision of the car

Check check carNever a vehicle in the dark or rain. It is very difficult, dents, scratches, rust recognize, and many other defects.

If you can, take a look at the car before the bell rang. This gives you the opportunity to watch without distraction by the seller.

Always start the car with the engine cold. It is easier to recognize how startup problems, or smoke too many books.

Squatting on each front wheel and look out over the length of the vehicle. Both front wheels should be directly to the back - if not, that would mean the car was in an accident with a slightly twisted chassis. This is known as a cancer.

Check the differences between the body parts of equal - if not the vehicle can be redeveloped or a bad accident could have been.

Take a look at the tires. Are they good? The legal minimum depth for the rotation of the tires into the United Kingdom is 1.6 mm.

Look under the car under the bonnet and the carpet for rust and signs that the car was in an accident, such as welding marks.

If your car, make sure the belt properly, steering wheel and dashboard are securely locked and that all switches work, and move the front seats well.

Under the hood, looking for signs of leakage of oil on the engine and underneath. Use test strips to verify the amount of oil. If the level is low, the owner does not care of the car.

Look around the oil filling CAP mayonnaise and white matter - this is an indication of a damaged cylinder head gasket, which can be very expensive to repair.

For more information about what to check whether you have a car, click here.

The test drive

The driveYou test should never buy a car without driving it first.

Make sure you are fully insured to drive the car dealership, and take the evidence of this with you.

Before the start of the trip, the wheel of an attack on one another. There should be no noise, hit or strike.
Test the handbrake. Look at it and slowly start pulling. If not the car itself is something wrong.

Driving on the roads in many areas as possible. Use all the gears, and check the gearbox is smooth and creamy. The clutch pedal should 'bite' between the upper and middle of the pedal travel.

Do you hear strange noises from the engine, and you do not get distracted by conversations, the seller or the radio set.

Click here for more information on the test drive.

Negotiation

Take a moment to remind you that you think might work to make cars. Use this option to negotiate the price with the seller.

Ask the seller what he needs to start the car. Share indicate a lower offer for the car, then. This gives them two options - make your offer or an offer-cons.

If they seem to work, go shake his hand and accept to confirm the transaction.

Paperwork

You need the V5C document the history of the service, Insp. All must be present and correct, or you should walk away from the case.

Make sure all documents are originals - copies are not accepted.

Examine the logbook (V5C) carefully. Make sure the seller is the registered proprietor of the V5C. If not, they are not legally allowed to sell cars.

Verify that correct, and the number of the vehicle identification number.

Many dealers say stamp in the logbook, the likelihood is that the car is well maintained. It is always worth calling the garage to check they have the work done.

Payment

Get a receipt for each payment you make, especially if you pay cash. Get two copies - one for you, and they were. Make sure that the details of the car and the address of the seller and that both will be signed both copies.

Click here for important information about the vehicle fraudulent sellers.

Auto Trader links

Buy a car
Test Rides
How to check a car before you buy
Ten reasons why you need to check car data
Auto Trader Vehicle Check
Vehicle Crime Center
Call the Seller
The legal rights of car buyers "
Useful numbers
Make me an offer
DVLA V5C Registration Certificate

Nissan 370Z Roadster Nissan

Nissan 370Z Roadster

Local Launch
Queenstown, New Zealand

What we liked
>> Well modulated ride
>> Taut construction for a convertible
>> Impeccable cornering traits

Not so much
>> LED warning light system for engine temp and fuel level
>> Tyre roar
>> Moderately noisy roof operation

Overall rating: 3.5/5.0
Engine/Drivetrain/Chassis: 4.0/5.0
Price, Packaging and Practicality: 3.5/5.0
Safety: 4.0/5.0
Behind the wheel: 2.5/5.0
X-factor: 4.0/5.0

About our ratings


OVERVIEW
-- Nissan enters hard-to-reach market with flip-top Z
Very few would deny that the Nissan 370Z Roadster is a looker, although it is more attractive still with the top down. But it's what's underneath the folding-roof 370Z that sets it apart from other soft-top sports cars.

Try finding a rigidly-constructed rear-wheel drive convertible that develops the sort of power and torque and offers the comfort, safety equipment and dynamic capability that the Z does for under $80,000 in this market. There's not much around.

Based on the 370Z coupe, the Roadster arrives during the 40th anniversary year of Nissan's Z-car. The first year of the 1970s marked the introduction of the company's 240Z, which began a line of succession that can be traced to the present day. The drop-top model is a recent edition to the company's sportscar family, the 350Z predecessor being the first to spawn a variant with a folding roof. The 240Z through to 300ZX were all coupes, although there were 'targa-roof' models available from the 280ZX onwards.

Building on its own heritage, the 370Z Roadster offers some improvements over the 350Z Roadster it replaces. For a start, it comes with Track suspension standard -- not the Touring suspension of the earlier car. There's a larger rear window; more compact stowage for the roof; fully automatic roof operation (no manual latching and unlatching as in the 350Z); premium quality fabric for the roof in lieu of canvas; and interior lining for the roof.


PRICE AND EQUIPMENT
-- Keeping it under $80,000
Only available in the one level of trim, the 370Z Roadster is priced at $74,990 for the six-speed manual variant or $77,990 for the seven-speed automatic variant. Although the cars driven in New Zealand for the launch featured a large storage bin in the centre fascia, this will be filled by a satnav interface (touch screen) in Australian-spec vehicles, which will also offer iPod/USB and Bluetooth connectivity as standard.

Other comfort and convenience features fitted as standard include: 19-inch alloy wheels, wind deflector, keyless entry/start, one-touch auto-up/down electric windows, electric mirrors, climate control and eight-speaker/six-disc/MP3-compatible Bose CD audio system.

The 370Z Roadster boasts the following safety features also: ABS/EBD, Brake Assist, stability control, traction control, dual-stage front airbags for driver/passenger, seat-mounted side-impact airbags, door-mounted side-curtain airbags, seatbelt pretensioners and load-limiters.

For more on the equipment levels native to the 370Z checkout our coupe launch review.


MECHANICAL
-- Coupe underpinnings carried over
Providing tangible improvements over the 350Z Roadster, the 370Z Roadster also manages to be 25kg lighter than the superseded car. That still places it behind the 370Z coupe for weight though -- 60kg heavier for the auto, 55kg more for the manual, however. Kerb mass is 1608kg for the manual, 1618kg for the auto. Some of the blame for that added weight over the 370Z coupe's kerb mass can be attributed to structural reinforcement in the A-pillars, side sills and door/boot apertures.

In reducing weight (when compared with that of the 350Z Roadster), Nissan has resorted to aluminium panels for the bonnet, doors and boot lid. The 370Z Roadster is shorter, both in overall length (65mm less) and wheelbase (100m) than the 350Z Roadster, but is built on a wider track. Dimensions for the new car are 4250mm (length) and 2550mm (wheelbase).

Designed in a traditional front-engine/rear-drive layout, the 370Z Roadster is powered by the same 3.7-litre DOHC V6 as the coupe. The engine develops 245kW of power at 7000rpm and 363Nm of torque from 5200rpm. According to Nissan, the new engine provides more torque than the car's predecessor, the 350Z Roadster, at both low and high revs.

With its variable valve timing and lift system (VVEL), the powerplant is also more frugal than the 3.5-litre engine in the 350Z. Nissan claims that the automatic variant of the 370Z Roadster uses 11.2L/100km in combined-cycle testing and the manual is good for 10.9L/100km.

The engine drives through either a standard six-speed manual or an optional seven-speed automatic to the rear (drive) wheels. Nissan bundles the manual transmission with 'SynchroRev Match', which automatically matches engine speed to road speed on downshifts. The automatic incorporates Adaptive Shift Control, to adjust shift points to suit the driver's style of operating the transmission in manual mode.

Drive from the transmission is relayed via a carbonfibre driveshaft to the differential and on to the rear wheels, which are suspended by means of a four-link IRS system. Brakes at the rear are 350 x 20mm ventilated disc rotors and are actuated by twin-piston aluminium calipers.

Up front, the brakes are also ventilated discs, measuring 355x32mm, and hydraulic pressure is applied through four-piston aluminium calipers.

Rack and pinion steering is power assisted, varying with the road speed. 19-inch alloy wheels are nine inches wide at the front, 10 inches wide at the rear. They're shod with P245/40 R19 Bridgestone Potenza tyres (front) or P275/35 R19 counterparts at the rear. The car comes with a spacesaver spare.


PACKAGING
-- Tight but accessible
Unlike some more expensive sportscars, the 370Z Roadster is not hard to enter or exit. It sits high enough off the ground that you don't need to catapult in or out of it and there's adequate angle of attack to swing your legs into the footwells without doing yourself an injury.

The seats in the 370Z Roadster were snug and very well contoured. Recline and travel adjustment switches were placed inboard, between the seat squabs and the centre console, so they were easy to reach. This reviewer found the legroom to be a little restrictive without adjusting the seat back as far as it would go and raising the recline angle for the backrest to a position closer to upright.

Two dials for the driver's seat four-way tilt/height adjustment were located on the outboard side of the seat, near the door. They were actually quite easy to reach, far more so than you'd expect in this reasonably tight cabin.

Raising the electro-hydraulic roof was very simple and required just 20 seconds to complete. There's just the one toggle switch to raise or lower the folding roof and everything, including the latching and locking in place, is taken care of automatically.

It was, in the view of our co-driver, a 'clunky' affair, however, for its noisiness. It's only an annoyance while the electro/hydraulic roof is operating -- and that's not going to be that often in the life of the car.

The instrument binnacle rises and lowers with the three-spoke steering wheel's rake adjustment, so the view of the instruments is never compromised by the position of the steering wheel. That's definitely a plus, but the steering wheel isn't adjustable for rake, which even a car with the Z Roadster's tight driving position could use.

Minor instruments -- oil temp, voltmeter and clock -- were mounted in three pods over the centre fascia and angled towards the driver.

As far as storage space was concerned, there are two small bins, one behind each of the seats. There was perhaps enough room to accommodate a camera bag or object of similar size. Anything much larger would need to go in the boot.

On that subject, Nissan supplies the 370Z Roadster with a warning sticker in the boot to advise that not all golf bags will necessarily fit. It's certainly a small boot, but can't fit a golf bag within it? No great loss, in this reviewer's opinion. Surely you'd buy a car like this for the enjoyment of driving... The car, not a golf ball!


SAFETY
-- Pedestrian safety a virtue of clever styling
Designed in parallel with the 370Z coupe, the Roadster features additional body reinforcement (see MECHANICAL section above) and gains from safety features already built into the coupe, such as the pop-up bonnet that reduces injury to pedestrians in an impact. It's rare that a vehicle kind to pedestrians can also be attractive. Nissan has succeeded where others have failed.

Active safety measures fitted as standard include: ABS/EBD, stability control, traction control and Brake Assist. Vehicle occupants are kept safe in the event of a collision by the dual-stage front airbags for driver/passenger, seat-mounted side-impact airbags, door-mounted side-curtain airbags, seatbelt pretensioners and load-limiters.


COMPETITORS
-- Where are all the affordable sports cars?
Short list, this one. Honda's S2000 is no more and lacked the modern design and grunty V6 of the Nissan anyway. BMW's 135i convertible comes in at $79,644 and you do get a fair amount of car for your money -- including two extra seats that the Nissan doesn't have. Audi's A3 Cabriolet won't match the Nissan for straightline performance and it's a front-driver, but it is quite a rigid vehicle and has the extra kids' seats in the rear also. It's also quite a bit cheaper.

If you want the legit two-seat, rear-drive sportscar equivalent to the 370Z Roadster, you'll need to have something like an extra $20,000 as a minimum. If money isn't too much of an object, there's BMW's Z4, the Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 or the Porsche Boxster. All-wheel drive answers to the Nissan also include the Audi A5 and the TT.


ON THE ROAD
-- Focused enough, but not to the point of discomfort
Ride quality was very good overall, particularly given that Australian-spec cars are equipped with the Track suspension, unlike the 350Z Roadster which came with a Touring specification. We found the 370Z Roadster could be ever so slightly jittery over high-frequency bumps -- a function of wide track, short wheelbase and torsionally rigid body, we suspect.

Tyres were noisy on the rough bitumen roads of New Zealand. We wouldn't expect them to be any quieter on similar roads in Australia, but on better-surfaced roads on freeways, arterials and suburban streets, they may well do better.

There was virtually no scuttle shake from the 370Z Roadster. It feels very taut and rigid, which is definitely to the car's credit. The car maintained benign and consistent handling, adopting a wider line on the exit as power was applied. Steering was communicative and provided a well modulated response to the driver's input. There were no nasties, such as weight transfer or particular throttle sensitivity; the IRS was steadfast in the way it held the road.

The engine was sporty and responsive. There was a sort of induction boom at mid-range revs to really make you sit up and take notice. It wasn't as soulful as an Alfa V6, but it was certainly one of the better V6s on the market, with a sort of 'Germanic' timbre about it.

On the open road, the trip computer showed 9.1L/100km in gentler driving, but got up around 16L/100km when driven harder. In the way it delivered its power, it was responsive, but meted out more torque in the mid-to-high range rather than down low. That's acceptable; it's in keeping with the sporty nature of the soft-top Z, but it's not a lazy car in a straight line.

The Nissan's performance was helped in no small measure by the seven-speed automatic. At least one of the reviewera on the launch preferred the six-speed manual transmission, but there appeared to be some considerable support for the seven-speed slusher. Indeed, the auto was refined enough when left in Drive, but excelled when being used to shift gear manually -- especially with the paddles. It would hold the gear selected if the car were accelerating hard or decelerating, but when the engine was operating on a light throttle, the transmission would change back to Drive.

Plainly, when the lever was pulled right, into the sequential-shift quadrant, the transmission would hold whatever gear was chosen, irrespective of throttle position.

While the manual transmission was easy to use and quite precise, we'd still opt for the auto. With the shift paddles and the extra ratio, the auto Z is probably a faster car, point to point -- and that's an important consideration in a sportscar. Shifting the autobox manually, you could balance the car on the throttle as equally effectively as in a manual-equipped car and the auto variant was just slightly smoother to use at other times.

Traction control and stability control appeared to operate more or less seamlessly. Only on occasions when the warning light was flashing was the driver made aware either system was working. The electronic nannies couldn't be felt underfoot or through the seat or wheel.

Instrument layout and controls were generally easy to use, legible in the case of the instruments, accessible in the case of controls, but the rows of LEDs for fuel level and engine temperature in the left binnacle were moderately hard to read, especially in direct sunlight.

Nissan makes the claim that the 370Z Roadster offers 'bluster-free' motoring. It's not up there with more expensive Euro convertibles for that 'clear air' ambience, but it's a fair effort. We would probably rate it higher, but the jury must remain out in light of the crosswinds that were with us constantly during the drive program.

Despite sharing little affinity with those who enjoy open-top motoring (or golf), this reviewer would opt for the more expensive 370Z Roadster over its coupe sibling. You're not sacrificing spaciousness, ride or dynamics for the convertible Z, so why not? It's a real cheesecake of a car, delectable with a firm base.

If there are any considerations mitigating against the 370Z Roadster at all, they would boil down to soft-top security and the vehicle's styling with roof in place. Even then, that latter point is one to sort out on the basis of personal preference.

WHAT CAN I AFFORD

WHAT CAN I AFFORD?::

Before you head out to purchase a vehicle, it is important that you determine exactly what you can afford. When negotiating with either a private party or a dealer, you will need to be prepared to handle all kinds of high-pressure techniques. Your best line of defense is by far having already done your homework so you can stand your ground.

Taking into consideration that buying a used or new vehicle will probably be your second largest purchase after a home, you need to make sure you know exactly what your budget will support. Some basic questions you need to ask yourself are:

* What total purchase price can I afford?
* What amount of monthly payment can I afford?
* How much will I be required to put down?

By loading yourself up with knowledge and facts, the shopping experience can be much easier. After you have a good idea of what you can afford, add in some of the other costs associated with this purchase such as insurance, fuel, warranties, license, and registration.

Let's be honest. Dealers would like to sell you the most expensive vehicle you can afford but that probably is not the right choice. So how do you determine the price range that is best for you?

A good guideline to follow is that your monthly vehicle payment should never exceed 20% of your monthly NET income. Take your monthly net pay and first deduct all of your living expenses. The remaining money is what could be used toward a vehicle payment. Once you have determined what you can afford, you can quickly estimate what your monthly payment should be.

By knowing your approximate monthly payment, you will be able to shop only in the appropriate price range, and you will know if the person selling the vehicle is being reasonable or out of line.
Many Websites such as Autobytel offer loan Loan Calculators that will automatically do the calculations for you.

As the sales person starts quoting you payments, you will be alerted if they might be adding in any hidden costs.

One thing that should be obvious but is often overlooked when buying a vehicle is the sales tax. Be sure to add this figure in so you do not have any unpleasant surprises. To determine what you will need to pay in sales tax, simply multiply the total cost of the vehicle by your state's sales tax rate. So for example, if you had a vehicle with a total value of $20,000 and your state's sales tax rate is 6.3, you would be paying a total of $21,260.

Another good idea is to contact your local bank, credit union, or other financial sources to obtain a quote based on the MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price). If the payment quoted falls within your budget, then you will know that the payment is something you can afford whether you negotiate below or at the MSRP.

BUYACAR REVIEWS | CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS

We've had the pleasure of helping over 5,500 people find cars since 2003, here's some of the messages we've received from our customers

Many of our customers also write reviews of their new cars when they've had the chance to drive them for a while. Look out for these customer reviews while you browse buyacar.co.uk.

BUYACAR REVIEWS | CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS

“We just wanted to drop you a line to say thank you for the excellent customer service we received from you and BUYACAR. We are delighted with our Honda Civic and will have no hesitation in recommending BUYACAR to others.”
Review by Steve Bentley and Maureen Hesketh - Burnley - Dec 2009

“To All the team ay Buyacar.co.uk Just a quick note to say THANK YOU for the excellent service I received when purchasing my new Renault Magane Coupe. I've had the car for almost two weeks and I'm over the moon with it. The car was delivered on time and my p/ex was picked up the next day. The guy's who delivered and collected the cars were professionals and very polite. I would and will recommend your company to friends and family or anyone who wanted a new car at a discount price from a company that give's you what it say's on the tin, a brand new car at a great price compared to main stream dealers once again thank you.”
Review by Mr Hussey - Newport - Dec 2009

“Many thanks... May I take this oppotunity to say what a great experience I have had in dealing with Buyacar. I have stressed quite a lot over making such a huge purchase over the internet but have always received prompt and friendly responses to all of my queries. Providing all goes well with the delivery I do not think I will ever buy a car with anyone else again and will certainly be recommending you to everyone I know. Thanks again”
Review by Nicola Allen - Cardiff - Dec 2009

“I would just like to thank you for a very pleasant and easy transaction when purchasing our new vehicle from you. Rob who delivered our Honda yesterday was very professional and kept us informed early in the day when he was likely to arrive. We are 100% happy with our vehicle and would like to thank everyone involved in our purchase. I will certainly recommend you to friends and colleagues about your service and the savings we made.”
Review by Gillian and John Gunn - Caithness - Nov 2009

“Just wanted to say thank you to you all at buyacar for the excellent service. I now have my new car and am really pleased with it. I will certainly be recommending you to my friends/colleagues. Regards (and keep up the good work)”
Review by Marion Szyndler - Leicester - Oct 2009

“I've written a nice glowing review for you on Review Center. I'm very pleased with the car and the service from buyacar.co.uk”
Review by Ian Thomas - Radstock - Oct 2009

“Just to confirm that my new vehicle was as arranged delivered to my home today and is in first class condition. Can I thank you for the help that you have given to me regarding the purchase and say how very impressed I am with the service that I have received from you and your company. I will not hesitate to recommend Buyacar in the future. Again many thanks to you.”
Review by Howard Strong - North Cave - Oct 2009

“I can confirm receipt of the car on Monday and would like to thank you both for the promt service you have given. From finding and ordering the car, through to arranging finance and delivery, all aspects were handled in a professional manner at presumably one of the busiest periods of the year. I shall have no hesitation in recommending Buy a Car to anyone looking to buy a new (and discounted) car. If you would like to use this as a testimony please feel free.”
Review by Giles Williamson - Tunbridge Wells- Sept 2009

“Fab, fab and fab. I will also fill out the proper feedback form online, but I can say it was great from start to finish... Thank you!”
Review by Melissa Boylen - Essex - Sept 2009

“Just a quick line to say thank you for making my first new car purchase such an easy experience. I got a great deal, the car is fantastic and is exactly what I was looking for. I did extensive research before deciding to go ahead, and Buyacar.co.uk was far and away the simplest site to use, as well as offering serious discounts off list price. Everything was very quick, and the staff were more than helpful when I contacted them. I wouldn't hesitate to use Buyacar.co.uk again, and will recommend you to any friends who hint that they might be in the market!”
Review by Ian Thomas - Catterick Garrison - Aug 2009

“A note of thanks for the excellent service provided by you and the rest of the team at buyacar. I am delighted with the car and the price I paid for it, and the V5C arrived a couple of days ago as promised.”
Review by Hubert Firth - Borehamwood- Aug 2009

“The new car arrived at about 09:15 this morning. I could not fault it as it was in perfect condition. It was a leap of faith on the colour as we hadn't seen the Mazda 6 in that colour until today but we are now convinced we made the right choice. I was impressed with the professionalism of the delivery driver and the obvious care he had taken on the 280 mile drive down. The part exchange was picked up late this afternoon and the driver commented that the car far exceeded his expectations in terms of its condition and that he should make a good margin on it. It wasn't just me smiling today! I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all at Buy A Car for your professional and efficient service. Everything happened as promised the only exception being that the wait for the car was nearer to only seven weeks rather than twelve anticipated. I will recommend you to my friends and colleagues without hesitation and will look to buy my next new car from you in a few years time.”
Review by Richard Lunnon - Plymouth- July 2009

“Car arrived 1pm yesterday in perfect condition. Many thanks.”
Review by John Davies - Stoke on trent- May 2009

“Just to say thanks for the efficient service you provide. I have had my new Citroen C5 Tourer Estate for 1 week now. Delivery was excellent and the car is great.”
Review by Helen Lucking - Lytham St. Annes- May 2009

“Our car arrived today and we wish to thank you and your colleagues for your help and great service. We were kept informed at every stage and the car came in an immaculate condition. Many thanks.”
Review by Evelyn & Noel Murphy - Daventry - May 2009

“Car arrived exactly as promised on a transporter at 10 am, and the tax disc by recorded delivery shortly after. Thank you to everyone for all their help and the excellent standard of customer service ? I shall have no hesitation in recommending you to friends and family. Best wishes.”
Review by Anthony Scott - York- Apr 2009

“Just a short note to say thanks to you and the team at BuyACar. I am delighted with the new cars, which was delivered on Friday, and have been impressed with the overall service you and your colleagues have provided. I have to confess that I was a little surprised to see that the supplying dealer was in fact my local Mazda outfit, whom I gave every opportunity to be competitive before accepting your offer.”
Review by Tom Mackenzie - Cleveland - Apr 2009

“The car arrived today and I am very pleased with it. It was in lovely clean condition, the delivery driver was very good so thank you very much. I will recomend you to my friends.”
Review by John Murphy - Lancashire - Mar 2009

“Just a quick note of thanks to yourselves, I picked up the Honda Civic yesterday and am very pleased with it. Although I was nervous about buying a car through an internet service I was impressed by the excellent service you provide and I will have no problem in recommending Buyacar to friends and relatives. As you promised, the vehicle registration document arrived in the post today.”
Review by David Robinson - Eastington - Mar 2009

“We collected our new Honda on Saturday. May I express how impressed I was by the whole buyacar experience. Everything that was promised was sent on time with the minimum of fuss. I have previously purchased a vehicle through the internet but the service I received then was nowhere near that displayed by buyacar. A close friend has enquired on-line about a car purchase with you and I have no hesitation in thoroughly recommending your company. Please pass on my thanks to the rest of the staff involved in our purchase. I would like to leave a testimonial on your site and perhaps you can let me know how I do this. Many thanks again.”
Review by Stephen Archer - Weymouth - Feb 2009

“Thought i would just drop you a line to say the car arrived ok and my wife is over the moon with it. So thanks for everyone at Buyacar for their help during this process. This is the first time we have bought a car via the internet and despite having a few reservations your company has delivered the goods as promised and made the buying experience very good. We would have no hesitation in coming back for another car or recommending you to our friends - once again many thanks.”
Review by Dave Hilton - Yarm, Cleveland - Feb 2009

“Thanks to all at buyacar for a great service.”
Review by Steve Stones - Milton Keynes - Jan 2009

“Thank you, I am very pleased with 'Buy a car' service and I do hope all goes well with the delivery. My wife will, I am sure be very pleased with her birthday present. Not only am I the Chief Instructor at British Airways Cardiff but I am also a Union shop steward for Unite, I come into contact with lots of people I will most certainly pass you excellent services onto my colleagues.”
Review by Roy Chin - Barry, Val of glamorgan - Jan 2009

“We got the V5c in less than two weeks after this email was sent. I would like to thank you again for your excellent service, we were very impressed. We won't hesisitate to use you again, and will recommend you to friends and colleagues to use too. I hope the "economic downturn" doesn't affect you too much, and wish you all the best for 2009.”
Review by Paul Giles - Abingdon, Oxfordshire- Dec 2008

“Thanks - I'd forgotten all about the V5 log book. Amazing how the time flies. We won't be in the market for a new car for a couple of years but will definitely bear buyacar.co.uk in mind when we are.”
Review by David Simpson - Cheltenham- Dec 2008

“To all at Buyacar, Car was delivered at 09.00 today. Everything seems to be perfect. We would like to thank everyone at Buy a Car for everything, and we would happy to recomend you to anyone looking to purchase a car in the future. We would certainly use you in the future. We hope you all have a great Christmas & New Year. Thanks again for a brilliant service.”
Review by Chas. & Maureen MacGregor - Glasgow - Dec 2008

“Thank you for the information; I am still enjoying the car and am very pleased with the service that I had from you and the company.”
Review by John Loveridge - Dereham, Norfolk - Nov 2008

“I would like to thank you again for your excellent service, we were very impressed. We won't hesisitate to use you again, and will recommend you to friends and colleagues to use too. I hope the 'economic downturn' doesn't affect you too much, and wish you all the best for 2009.”
Review by Francoise Pierard - Oxford- Nov 2008

“Just thought I would drop you a line to say a big 'Thank You' to all at Buyacar.co.uk for my lovely brand new Mondeo which arrived promptly this morning. It is a beautiful car and is fantastic to drive. I am very pleased. Thanks”
Review by Brian Jackson - Sale, Cheshire - Nov 2008

“Just wanted to thank yourselves and your organisation for excellent service.From initial enquiry to the car arriving on my driveway this morning everything has gone just as you said it would and within the timescale quoted 12 weeks ago. I am delighted with my purchase and your great service. Congratulations and Thanks to everyone concerned. I will pass the word around.”
Review by John Lightfoot - Tyne & Wear - Oct 2008

“My new car arrived as arranged at lunch time today, I am delighted with it and the way that Buy-a-Car arranged the whole deal. You have been totally professional in all your dealings with me over the last three months and I would not hesitate to recommend your company to any prospective buyer. Many, Many Thanks to you and your colleagues for all your assistance, keep up the good work.”
Review by Tony Davies - Mid. Glamorgan - Sep 2008

“Thank you for your email. I have been really impressed with your service and the car. I have been contacted by the Mercedes Benz team to make sure the car was to my satisfaction as well and have recommended your company to my friends and colleagues.”
Review by Rahul Kanegaonkar - Orpington - Sep 2008

“Can I just thank all you guys for a great smooth service today on an excellent deal. The new car was here at 8 o'clock this morning somewhat catching me by surprise! The part ex was duly collected around 11 a.m. Both drivers were friendly and courteous. I am delighted with the whole experience and would not hesitate in recommending you to all.”
Richard Adams - Oswestry - Sep 2008

“Hi, I collected my new ford mondeo from your office last Friday, 5 sept, im just e-mailing to say a big thankyou to you and the buyacar team. the mondeo is absolutely superb!i think we dealt with a guy named Alex ( forgive me if thats not his name) when we picked it up , please pass on my thanks to him. The whole experience has been a joy, it's just a shame Ford were not so good as you guys & gals. but the 7 month wait was certainly worth it . i would certainly recommend buyacar to anyone looking for a new car. Thanks once again”
Mark Waterfall - Isle Of Man - Sep 2008

“Many, Many thanks for making the purchase of my wife's new car so simple and pleasurable. She was over the moon with it and thanks to you, I scored big points when the car was delivered ahead of schedule for her birthday (Your team really pulled out all the stops). I can only say good things about the setup, right from order to delivery the staff were always friendly, helpful with my questions and really tried to do all that was asked as quickly as possible. I saved thousands of pounds using Buyacar, and will not hesitate to use them again. I have been telling all my friends and family about how easy it was and know they will also use Buyacar in the future. Thanks again, and I will be dealing with you in the very near future (My Turn Next).”
Review by Glenn Pearson - Kent - Sep 2008

“Recieved the car in the morning as you said it would, im very happy with it, worth the wait!. Just want to say thank you for all your help from beginning to end you are great! :)”
Review by Daniel Waller - London - Aug 2008

“I took delivery of my new Astra Sporthatch at 09:15 on 01/08/08. Everything was as I had ordered and I'm absolutely thrilled with it! May I take this opportunity to thank ..., ..., ... and all the staff at Buyacar involved in processing my new car order. All demonstrated a high level of professionalism and good customer relations skills. I have told many people how easy it was (and the amount of cash I saved!) buying a car from Buyacar. Keep up the good work and many thanks once again.”
Alan Tasker - Falkirk - Aug 2008

“Thank you very much for the fantastic service we've received, we're thoroughly enjoying our new Prius and would not hesitate using your services again (or recommending others to do so). Kindest regards”
Review by Dr Colin Smith - Pinner - Jul 2008

“I found buy a car.com through a link on auto trader and decided to try them I was very nervous parting with a large some of money for a new car. But was put at ease by the sales team, went ahead, car arrived and was checked buy the transport driver as well, highly recommended company. I am more than satisfied.”
Jim Shirreffs - Aberdeen Scotland - Jul 2008

“May I express my gratitude to you and your colleagues for your valuable assistance and guidance in the purchase of our Mondeo. The car was safely delivered 3 weeks ago, and while I was away on the day, the driver was very helpful and explained everything about the car to my wife. The additional number plate was delivered on the following Tuesday. We are very pleased with the car and have towed the caravan for two short breaks. it's a very strong and stable towcar. Please convey our appreciation to all the staff at Buyacar.”
Wil Williamns - Y Felinheli - Jun 2008

“Can I just thank you and everyone at Buyacar for all your help also to the delivery and collection guys who were excellent and kept us informed at all points of delivery. My daughter was very pleased with the car and is looking forward to driving it.”
Ian Stubbs - Bexhill-On-Sea - Jun 2008

“Just to confirm received the new car this morning around 8am ? I wanted to thank you for your work and your colleagues that have assisted... Many thanks”
James Wilkins - Gloucester - Jun 2008

“Thank you for providing a superb service. I am delighted with my new car and will be recommending your company to friends and family for future purchases.”
Helen McGowan - County Durham - Jun 2008

“Got the car, exactly what I was after and delivered sooner than I expected. Buyacar.co.uk offer a fantastic service that is informative, reliable and value for money. I shall happily recommend your service whenever I can. Many thanks”
David Sagan - Abergavenny, Wales - May 2008

“Received my car on monday and it is great, i would to thank everybody at buyacar for making it so easy, and i would be pleased to recomend you to any one.”
Phil Appleby - Newcastle upon Tyne - May 2008

“I have now had the new car and like it very much. I would be lying if I didn't say that at the beginning I had some doubts about buying on the internet and in handing over a large sum of money to people I had never met and for a vehicle that I had never seen. But I was wrong to doubt your company and must thank you for the smooth running of the purchase. I feel that I got a good bargain and would now recommend you to anyone who was thinking of buying a new car. Thank you very much.”
John Loveridge - Norfolk - May 2008

“Just to notify you that I am now in receipt of the vehcle I ordered. I am very pleased with the outcome of my purchase both with reference to the standard of the vehicle and also by the way I was dealt with in a very curtious and pleasant manner by both of you. Rest assured that I will be singing my praises of you both to my friends. A very special thankyou to both of you, Yours sincerely.”
Cliff Lund - North Yorkshire - May 2008

“New car arrived safe and sound. Looks great. Thanks very much for your help and please pass my thanks on to the rest of the team. All the best.”
Jeff Young - Bath - Apr 2008

“Hello Everyone, just to say a big thank you for the delivery of my brand new sparkling Zafira, its the envy of the street, thank you all again for a stress free easy sale,wish you all the best from a well satisfied customer.”
Terry Moore - London - Apr 2008

“Many thanks to you and all your team it's been a pleasure doing business with you again.”
Bert Craven - Hatfield - Apr 2008

“The car arrived before 1100 this morning (Fri) and we're very pleased with it. The car arrived well ahead of the 8 week estimate. Very pleased with the service I've had from buyacar and will certainly consider you in future.”
David Simpson - Cheltenham - Apr 2008

“Just to say many thanks for making the purchase of my new Corsa go without a hitch. You've all been most helpful and dispelled any doubts i might of had about purchasing a car online. The car duly arrived on the day agreed and my old car was picked up at the same time, this really was a pleasent experience and i would definately recomend yourselves to anyone who's thinking of buying a new car on the internet.”
Dave Gaught - Leamington Spa - Feb 2008

“The new car has arrived safely and I hope the Alfa Romeo did likewise. Thanks for your courtesy and excellent service.”
Mike Counsell - Cheltenham - Jan 2008

“The car arrived as planned on Friday and I am very pleased with it. Thanks for all your assistance.”
Simon Shelton-Palmer - London - Jan 2008

“Many thanks for the efficient way you dealt with my order for the Ford mondeo estate and my part exchange.The whole process went without a hitch. Many thanks. Any future car purchases i make will be with yourselves.”
Tony Buck - Newark Notts - Dec 2007

“Despite being a little late in delivery (this was a factory order so no blame attached to Buyacar), the car was exchanged with my Golf at your Chiswick offices with no problem whatever. My thanks to all the staff at Buyacar in obtaining the car of my choice at a very good price and with no problem at all. This is a very large commitment of money over the internet and one of which I was initially apprehensive. I shouldn't have worried and I will have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending you to other potential car buyers.... Thanks again and I hope to be talking to you within the next two or three years for a replacement. A very satisfied customer.”
Ian Hunter - Alton - Dec 2007

“Just a brief message to say thankyou for all your help in the purchase of the Skoda. It arrived on Monday as arranged and all was in order. The Service Book arrived in the post today. This is the first time that I have ever purchased a major item off the internet. Many of my friends have followed the progress of the transaction with interest and not a little scepticism. I can, and shall, thoroughly recommend your company to them as a result of this transaction. Again, many thanks.”
Peter Henson - Buxton - Dec 2007

“The car has now arrived and my wife and I are over the moon, the delivery driver was very helpful and spent time going over the vehicle with us. The car has been delivered ahead of schedule and to the exact specification. I have not dealt with Buyacar before, I was quite nervous particularly when paying the full balance of the car, I need not have worried and I certainly will have no hesitiation in buying from you again nor shall I hesitate to recomend you to my friends. I have been most impressed and grateful by your response to every email I have sent and for this I thank you. My thanks also go to... and the rest of the team for all the help and advice. One last thanks for your understanding when I asked to change the delivery date and venue. Yours has been a first class service I would be most happy to have my comments registered on your web site.”
George Stevenson - Wilnecote, Tamworth - Oct 2007

“Just to let you know our Volvo S40 arrived at 2pm and we are delighted. Since we heard the car had arrived only 5 days ago, the service has been splendid, Delivery to our door and part exchange leaving at the same time was fantastic. We will certainly come to you again.”
Carole Radford - Scarborough - Sep 2007

“Just to say that I am very thrilled and pleased with my purchase of the new car - Lexus IS 220 Diesel. I had reservations initially but the whole process was effortless and stress free... I would like to thank you all for your diligence, understanding and professionalism at Buy-a-car. I will look forward to returning in 4 years time to do business again.”
Olu Sokoya - West Drayton - Sep 2007

“A very big thank you to all at buyacar for the delivery of my new car. Not only did I find the whole process smooth and professional, but any queries were answered positively and promptly. A huge bonus was the delivery of the car by transporter at no additional cost and the car came with fitted mats from Mercedes. Thank you once again and rest assured I will return and use every opportunity to promote your website.”
Gordon Balmer - Sommerset - Sep 2007

“Just wanted to let you know that my Ford Focus 1.6 Ghia arrived at 10.00 a.m. today and it is BEAUTIFUL !! Many thanks for all your help.”
Linda Penrose - Kettering - Sep 2007

“It was very nice to meet you and the whole team of BUYACAR. Thank you for making the whole process of buying our new car a very pleasant one. Our thanks to ... too. We will definitely not hesitate in recommending your company to others. Best regards.”
Raj and Preeti Patel - - Aug 2007

“Just a quick and belated thank you for the safe delivery last week of my car as promised. It was a pleasure doing business with you and your company.”
Gareth Zimmerman - Stroud - Jul 2007

“I would like to thank you & all the team at Buy a Car for the excellent service I received from you all. It was a big step for me jumping in & making such a big purchase online, but I do not have a single regret. It was so easy & hassle free I would & will recommend it to anyone. Thank you all once more.”
Sue Biggs - Isle of Wight - Jul 2007

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank "Buyacar" for the ease they have made it, in purchasing cars. At first I was very nervous of doing business over the internet and the time first stated of deliveries but what a professional and competent company you are. I will not hesitate in recommending your company to friends and colleagues alike, I have even mentioned your firm to our purchasing department about supply the company with cars. Very happy customer.”
Darran Taylor - Aberdare, Wales - Jul 2007

“Just a quick email to say a big thank you for your efforts in resolving the delivery issue and getting our car to us in time for our holiday and pre-labour for me (our 3rd lovely little boy is here now)! We are really enjoying the car (despite a couple of small faults which Hyundai have repaired/replaced under the warranty without issue) and appear to have made the right choice so far. Thanks again for your help - much appreciated. Kind regards,”
Karen Osborne - Nottingham - Jul 2007

“Just a quick word of thanks. The MX5 was delivered as promised this afternoon and the Celica picked up shortly after. Great car, great service - many thanks indeed. I'm delighted! All the best. Look forward to dealing with you again in 3 years or so when its time for another change. Best regards”
Garry Whitaker - Swindon - Jun 2007

“I wanted to drop you a note and also give some feedback on the service that I have received from you both on behalf of buyacar. I was happy to receive the Coupe on Wednesday morning at 09:00. The reassurance that you provided to me was timely and informative. Your customer care skills are both very strong and I guess it must be part of the ethos at buyacar. I am delighted with the service and it was a testament to a positive way that the Internet can influence good pricing and service. I did a lot of research before using you, as I guess I would have done with anyone that I was handing over that amount of money to, but your testimonies on the website were certainly a true reflection on how you worked. I am delighted with everything and if you ever needed to reassure another customer about your service, I would be happy to be a reference.”
Marcus Borg - Luton, Bedfordshire - May 2007

“Dear Alex, Success i am know the owner of a Mondeo Ghia X and have a badge to prove it, many thanks for your help in this matter and i will certainly recommend Buyacar to all my friends and family as the best online facility for the lowest price and service for any of them who want to buy a new car, yours sincerely Derek.”
Derek Small - Wirral, Merseyside - May 2007

“Good Afternoon Cassandra, Just a wee e-mail to say my Corsa arrived on Friday about 10.30am, no problems. Thanks for all your help, I am delighted with my car and the level of service from you and the rest of the Buyacar team. Regards”
Darren Robertson - Roxburghshire, Scotland - Apr 2007

“Just a short email to say how pleased we are with the Ford Fiesta we purchased from you recently. Buying the car and part exchanging our old one from your company on line was so much easier and cheaper than going to a dealer. Thank you.”
Adrian and Stephanie Howe - Berkhamsted - Apr 2007

“Good morning gentlemen, Road tax received at the end of last week and car delivered yesterday. My fiancee is over the moon with her new car and I have to say the buying experience was easy, simple, without fault and the entire Buy a Car organisation is to be commended. I would not hesitate to recommend your services to any potential customer you may have. I am planning to change my car in a few months and will be in touch. Regards and thanks for everything.”
Alex McAndrew - Aberdeenshire - Apr 2007

“Hi, I would like to thank everyone at Buyacar following my recent purchase of my Volkswagen Passat Estate. Despite a slight hiccup when the supplying dealer had to be changed, the car arrived bang on time. It arrived on a transporter, which was a pleasant surprise as I thought it was being driven to me, and they even found me at my rural address despite a local road closure. The supplying dealer let me know the day before delivery that they had discovered a slight scratch on the rear window and offered me the option of delaying delivery until it was replaced or to have it replaced at a local dealer. I took the latter option and everything was attended to perfectly between my local dealer and the supplying dealer. The car is now perfect. I am delighted with the service received from all concerned at Buyacar and won't hesitate to recommend you to friends and colleagues. I will certainly be in touch again when my wife's car is due for replacement. Thanks again”
Allan Murray - Lanarksire - Apr 2007

“Car arrived OK, driven by a very pleasant and helpful chap. Father-in-Law very pleased with the car. No problems found, although he hasn't driven it too much yet! Now my wife wants one. Many thanks”
David Vardy - Vale of Glamorgan - Apr 2007

“Got car, realy pleased, thanks for all your help and time... delighted with the service. All the best”
Michael Wilson - Sheffield - Mar 2007

“I am writing to thank you and your firm for a great service and quality product as you promised. The car is wonderful, and I shall recommend you to all, and use you again. Yours truly, Thank you all”
Paul Sherrard - Heswall, Merseyside - Jan 2007

“Just letting you know the car arrived this morning in perfect condition around 10:30. Thanks to everyone involved for making the whole process so painless. Thanks again”
Chris Jones - Birmingham - Jan 2007

“Just to let you know, the car arrived safely about 11.30 today - looks great! Thanks for all your help - a very smooth and satisfying transaction!”
Linda Millard - London - Dec 2006

“Thanks again for the car, Buyacar is fully recommended A++”
Pancho Oschilewski - Tunbridge Wells - Dec 2006

“Hello, Just to let you know my car arrived on time and in good condition, thanks very much for your service, i will and already have recommend you to others. thanks very much.”
Philip Cole - Bournemouth, Dorset - Nov 2006

“Hi, ... My first time buying on the internet with such a large amount of money. I am very happy with service recieved and the car. I will use your company again, and also recommend you.”
David Ryder - Newcastle Upon Tyne - Nov 2006

“I would just like to thankyou on the delivery of my new car and the service i recieved, I have already told one of my friends about your company and he is very interested.”
David Lyon - Cramlington, Northumberland - Nov 2006

“Can I take this opportunity to thank you all for a trouble free transaction and an ultimately an excellent car which, of course, what it was all about. From my initial contact with Drew and final exchange with the excellent delivery driver it has been a very satisfying experience for what was (for me) unknown territory. Please convey my thanks to all at BuyaCar.co.uk I hope the car gives me many miles of happy motoring. Best wishes”
Graham Maxtone - Fort William, Scotland - Nov 2006

“Handover went fine ... & Trevor presented the car in excellent condition. After explaining all I returned to Scotland, and am loving my new purchase! - Mind you I haven't seen it in the dry even yet! Never mind, all's good & I would just like to thank you, Oliver and Drew for your kind attentions over the past few months and in finding me such an excellent deal. Shame about the delay in manufacturing, but I know that's not your fault and I am grateful you stuck to the deal throughout the process. Thanks again, and hopefully we can all do it again in three years or so! Cheers & all the best”
Ian Keen-Smith - Oban, Argyll - Nov 2006

“Just to say thank you for the new car, it was delivered on Friday at about 11am. Thanks to you all at Buyacar, for keeping me informed so quickly, and also for saving me a lot of money. Good luck to you All, and a Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year. (Am I the First?)”
Donald Howarth - Havant - Oct 2006

“I received my car yesterday morning as promised and just wanted to say I am absolutely delighted with it. I am really pleased with it and I just wanted to thank you personally for all your help. Despite the delay, the car (and price) was well worth the wait and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend you guys.”
Gavin Williams - Orpington - Oct 2006

“Thanks a quick note to thank you and your company for the effecient and painless purchase of my Toyota Avensis T180 tourer today... I will be recommending your company to my work colleagues and who knows.. my wife now wants a Yaris so watch this space!”
Peter Hutchison - Sussex - Oct 2006

“Hi, I just want to say thank you for organising the purchase and delivery of my new Mondeo and taking my Vectra away in part exchange. I was stressed as you probably realized! - about buying on the internet and parting with my money before delivery. However all went well and I am delighted with my new car. People often write to complain, but not to say a job well done. So thanks a lot”
Jacky Evans - Manchester - Oct 2006

“Just thought I'd drop you this email to let you know that my Corsa arrived at 09:30 am this morning and the guy from Southampton picked up my Nissan at 13:30 pm. I would just like to say that so far the car looks absolutely superb. As this was the first time I've bought a car over the internet I was a bit dubious and nervous as you would expect but I have to say the service you have provided has been absolutely top quality and I could not have asked for better service anywhere. I will definately be recommended you to my friends and be using you again in the future.”
Neil Hancock - Gwent - Oct 2006

“Fantastic!!!! Car arrived looking brilliant and is exactly what we ordered and a dream to drive. I will be posting comments on your web site but just wanted to say a quick thank you, to you and the team, especially Megan who my wife must have driven mad regarding the delivery time. But she did it. I have already recommended your company to a number of work colleagues who were unbelievers!!!”
Howard Masters - Essex - Oct 2006

“Just a quickie to say the Corsa arrived, as promised today and we are so pleased with it. Also the driver was so pleasant and helpful. The whole experience has been so positive and easy. We would recommend you to anyone. Thanks again for everything.”
Brian & Jan Ridout - Dorset - Sep 2006

“Just to say that my new car arrived... and we're very happy with it. Very pleased with your service and despite having some last minute doubts about transferring a very large amount of money to a web-trader, very happy with the whole process. We shall definitely recommend you to our friends top notch service and extremely keen prices.”
Chris & Karen Vaughan - Ilkley, Yorkshire - Aug 2006

“I thought I would write to you one last time to tell you how pleased and satisfied I am with with the whole process of buying my car from Buyacar. Everything went exactly as I was told including delivery which was made by a very helpful and friendly person from Citroen. I shall have no hesitation in recommending Buyacar to any of my friends who are considering a new vehicle.”
John Timpson - Faringdon, Oxon - Aug 2006

“I would like to thank you and all your staff for the delivery for the new car. I was a bit nervous to buy a car from yourself because i never bought a brand new car from an internet firm before but i will recommend you big time to friends. Thanking you so much from andrew”
Andrew Davies - West Glamorgan, Wales - Jun 2006

“Hi, We arrived on Saturday and picked up our car as planned. Thanks again for all your help and putting the books for my wife in a gift bag. We are delighted with the car and if you also thank Drew our initial contact and Alex who handed us the keys, (tell Alex the door mirrors do fold in, the switch is on the mirrors adjuster). I was very hesitant about buying a car on the internet. We were looking for a Picasso of a certain specification and the local main dealers were messing us around and also quoting us prices we could not afford. I came across your site and found a Picasso not only with a higher specification but at a price which was lower than any dealer had been able to offer, and with finance if required. It sounded too good to be true and my wife and to some extent myself were a bit dubious. There was never any pressure to buy and your staff went out of their way to accommodate us and were always available to answer any questions. I can thoroughly recommend your company a honest and helpful who supply the vehicle as advertised.”
Brian & Eileen Geddes - Glasgow Scotland - Jun 2006

“The vehicle was delivered yesterday excatly as specified and in immaculate condition. Thank you very much. Barring the frustration of the delay in delivery, and this was fine once you communicated this with me it's been a great experience at exceptional value, the car's good too. Thanks a lot - I am sure I will be patronising you in 60,000miles or three years time. best wishes to you and your team”
Darren Whiter - Slough, Berkshire - Jun 2006

“Just thought I would drop you a note to say how happy we are with our new car and how easy it was to purchase through you. The guy who delivered the car was very helpful and took plenty of time to explain things to Stephanie upon delivery. A thoroughly good buying experience at a great price. Thanks”
Graham Diplock - Berkshire - Jun 2006

“Dear Megan, I am sitting in her now - outside the house - learning how to use her!!! She is a joy - she brings a smile to my face every time I look at her!! People laugh as she goes by and when I took her out yesterday people were taking pictures of her in the street!! Am I satisfied?? My dear - I am thrilled!!! Thank you sooo much for the car (now known as dizzy) and for the flowers!!”
Owner of a new Smart Cabrio Pink Passion
Caroline Young - Cheltenham - May 2006

“I just wanted to thank you both for all you have done since I ordered my new car back in March I have been very impressed with the efficient way everything has happened - from order to delivery. I have emailed all my friends telling them all about Buyacar so I hope you eventually you get a lot more business, I would not hesitate to order another car from you when the need arises - you take all the hassle out of it!! Best wishes to you both”
John Discombe - Eastleigh, Hampshire - May 2006

“Hi, Thanks for what has been a very professional transaction from start to finish. We're delighted with the car, the price and the flexible and friendly way I've been treated from beginning to end. Your company has a totally frank, straightforward and transparent way of working which I have liked from the very beginning. I would be quite happy to share my experiences with any others.”
Mel Cadman - Dunbartonshire - May 2006

“Hi, Many thanks for all your help, car arrived today and I am very pleased with it. I am impressed with your company and will be recommending you. Please pass on my thanks to everyone at Buy a Car.”
Gill Andersson - Sussex - May 2006

“Just a short note to say I am really pleased with my new vehicle. It is the 1st time I have used the internet to source a vehicle and rest assured when I am looking to change my vehicle then Buyacar will be the 1st telephone call. I have let all my friend and colleagues know how good the service was from yourself and the company. Thank you once again”
Geoff Akroyd - Stockport, Cheshire - Apr 2006

“Many thanks to all at Buy a Car for the excellent service received and the great savings I made on my new car. I've have had no problems recommending you to others, your service and attention is first class and wish you all the best for the future”
Harry Dunlin - East Yorkshire - Apr 2006

“Hi, just a quick note to let you know how happy I am with my new Renault Megane 1.9DCi Privilege. I was quite apprehensive at first, as I've not bought anything so expensive over the internet before, but all of you made it so easy and painless, from placing the order, to receiving the car. The delivery date was just when you said it would be, and to top it all, I saved a small fortune. I have already recommended you to anyone who'll listen to me, and will continue to do so. Thanks again”
Mark Ledran - Hampshire - Apr 2006

“I just wanted to let you know I've taken delivery of my new car and wanted to let you know how pleased I am with the service I received from Buy a Car. I will definitely be recommending you in the future.”
Margaret Tolland - New Port - Mar 2006

“Hi, Just to let you know that the car arrived today and it was great...A big "Thank you" for arranging it.”
Jan Kershaw - Bristol - Mar 2006

“Thank you for the car,it is excellent,your service during the buying process was exceptional, i'd like to thank Oliver whom greeted us when we arrived to recieve the car and also Mr Alex Davis for his patience. I would have no hesitation buying from you again, I have already recommended your firm to friends and family.”
Ronald Turner - Blyth - Mar 2006

“I write to thank you for your service during my car purchase transaction recently. You will recall I purchased a Peugeot 206 Verve 5 door 1400 diesel car which was delivered as requested on 18th April 2006. Your service was smooth and efficient and I will recommend you to anyone I know who wishes to purchase a car.”
Brian Brown - Staffordshire - Feb 2006

“Just a quick e-mail to let you know that I picked up my new Mondeo ST TDCi purchsed through Buy A Car on the 2nd of March 2006 as arranged. I would like you to know that I am over the moon with the car and thankyou for the brilliant service you and the Buy A Car team gave me from my initial enquiry through to arranging the collection of the vehicle. I will have no hesitation in recomending Buy A Car to friends and family for potential new car purchases in the future.”
Richard Martin - Ipswich - Feb 2006

“I've never purchased a new car before so I was a bit apprehensive as to what to do!, With Buyacar I was given full support and advise from start to finish. It was a bit like ordering a DVD off the internet really. The team did their best to get the car to me as soon as possible and I was given frequent updates as to when I would be recieving my new car. The whole entire process of buying was extremely painless and I would recommend them to anyone who is looking to buy a car! On that note I would like to say thankyou to the whole team at Buyacar.”
Paolo Esposito - East Sussex - Feb 2006

“The new Mercedes ML320 CDI you supplied me is excellent, just as I hoped it would be. The young lady that delivered the vehicle on the transporter was also excellent and her attention to detail was exemplary. Once again thankyou very much for your service.”
Brain Metters - Devon - Jan 2006

“I am writing to say thank you to Buyacar for the tremendous service. Like most other people I was apprehensive about paying such a large sum of money over the internet without seeing the product. But I did a bit of research and sought out some references, and all were good. I needn't have worried. The new car was delivered exactly when promised. The discount was great and the part-exchange valuation was fair. I would certainly recommend Buyacar to anyone, and I am already in the process of looking up deals with you for friends and family. You may use this email in your testimonials. Cheers”
David Hales - Huddersfield - Jan 2006

“I took delivery of the car on Tuesday at 9am as promised. The car was perfect and I am extremely impressed with it. I am also very impressed with the service provided by Buyacar as you have both been extremely helpful and efficient with the whole buying process. I have already recommended you to a number of people and to a number of potential Megane 225 buyers. Please could you forward this to your management as I am very impressed with the service provided by yourselves and Buyacar in general and would like this praise highlighted. Thanks again, I will definitely be buying from you again in the future.”
Alex J Mills - Surrey - Jan 2006

“I have been very impressed with quality of service that your company has given in the whole process of purchasing this car - which I am delighted with. With my warmest good wishes”
Russell Bowman-Eadie - Somerset - Dec 2005

“Thanks to you and everyone else at buy a car, we collected our car and are very pleased with it. Regards”
Mark (and Alexia and Elena) Kilby - Milton Keynes - Dec 2005

“Car delivered on time yestarday very pleased hope to do more business with you next year. Yours Sincerely”
Walter C Parson Funeral Directors - Plymouth - Nov 2005

“Just a short note to express my thanks with my recent transaction for a Ford Mondeo ST TDCI that I collected from you last Thursday. The transaction was totally painless from start to finish and any questions I had were answered in a professional and courteous manner. I am delighted with my car and wish congratulate the Buyacar team for a job well done and hope to do business with you in the future. Kindest regards”
Bob Hemmings - Caerphilly S.Wales - Oct 2005

“Car delivered on Wednesday morning. Just a note to thank all the team at Buy-a-Car for the friendly service. I would certainly use the service again and would be happy to recommend to friends, family, and aquintances. Many Thanks”
Colin Watson - Northampton - Sep 2005

“Can I say how remarkably easy and efficient it has been to deal with you. The whole experience was seamless throughout and the car arrived just over a month before its scheduled delivery date. Better still, the discount on the vehicle was fantastic and way beyond anything I could have hoped to negotiate direct with a dealer. A truly excellent service! Kind regards”
Jeremy Simon - Sevenoaks, Kent - Sep 2005

“Thanks for the excellent service. Our new Honda arrived Tuesday 20th Sept 2005 earlier than expected. The attention and service that we have received from Buyacar and the dealership have been exceptional. I recommended Buyacar to a friend a week ago and he was so impressed that he has ordered a new car also. Keep up the good work. Thanks again”
Trevor Tunnicliffe - Devon - Sep 2005

“Just to let you know that the car arrived in perfect condition and it is fantastic. My wife and I are delighted with the car which was definitely worth the wait. Thank you for all your assistance throughout the buying (and waiting) process. We would definitely do business with Buyacar again.”
Anthony Briggs - Yorkshire - Jul 2005

“I would just like to thank you for all your help regarding the purchase of my new car. I have to admit I was a little apprehensive at first but all went very smoothly. It got delivered this morning at 6am to my surprise. I will definately be recommending Buyacar to everyone i know who is after another car.”
Mark Powell - Derbyshire - Jun 2005

“Just to let you know that my car arrived safe and sound and is fabulous! However, I have a complaint... it is raining so the weather is therefore not fit for its? purpose... should I return it?!!! Only joking, thanks for your help”
Owner of a new SLK200 convertible
Debbie Adcock - East Yorks - Jun 2005

“Just writing to thank you for the most trouble free purchase I have made on line. I have had more problems purchasing CD's in the past!, than buying this car! As you may understand, parting with this sort of money without ever meeting or knowing about a company, was a bit daunting, especial as there was no real "sell" at all from you, just a gentle flow of e-mails between us, which was very refreshing in this day and age. Many thanks for your superb service and incredible discounts and then delivered to the door without any hassle. I think that just about say it all!”
David Milton - Sussex - Jun 2005

“Hi, just to let you know that Ford Focus turned up today at lunchtime. Thanks for your help during the ordering process and particularly for sorting out the prompt delivery today. Look forward to doing business again with Buy a Car sometime in the future!”
David Taylor - Northumberland - Jun 2005

“Just a quick reply to say 'thank you ' for all your help in the purchase of the car. The whole process was very smooth and efficient. Much easier than working through main line dealers. Have told all my friends so I hope more business comes your way”
Ken Smith - East Sussex - Apr 2005

“Nissan Primera SX delivered on time as promised and to full UK specification.The whole process was hassle free and I would certainly recommend Buy A Car to friends and family. I was very impressed with the smooth way the transaction took place from order to delivery. Thank you”
Rob Withnall - Hull - Apr 2005

“I took delivery of the vehicle on 12th as arranged. I was quite impressed with the efficiency of your firm in this matter and I will defininitely recommend your services to my friends. Thank you”
Dr P Rajah - County Durham - Apr 2005

“Just a little note to thank you for all you have done. The car was delivered yesterday, a little earlier than planned but my daughter was at home to receive it. I shall recommend Buy a Car to anyone wishing to buy a new motor. Once again, many thanks for the superb service.”
Mike Norton - Cheshire - Mar 2005

“Thankyou for your help in buying my new car, it is definitely the most hassle free and cheapest way to buy a new car.”
Andrew Tigwell - Kent - Mar 2005

“Just a short line to thank you and the team for delivery of a superb Mazda. Thanks for your excellent service”
Ken Greason - Nottingham - Mar 2005

“It's been a great and simple experience to buy the honda thru buyacar. Thanks to you all”
Alex Leigh - Buckinghamshire - Feb 2005

“Just wanted to say a huge thank you for all your patience and help with my first venture into buying on the internet. My internet friendly children are amazed that my first purchase is a new car. The car is great! Just perfect. It was delivered to my door on the day, and at the time we agreed. I just can't believe how easy it all was. From my first contact with you, to delivery has been only two weeks. You've taken my car in part exchange and sorted out the finance. It has been far easier than when I bought a car at the local dealers. Thank you for such good service and the friendly way you all dealt with my questions. I don't know why anyone would buy a car any other way now. I am recommending you to all my jealous friends. With kindest regards”
Jean Howard - Hull - Feb 2005

“I would like to thank you and anyone else on your team who worked on my order for a Nissan Primera. I received the car early on Friday and am extremely pleased with it and the service you gave. I have to admit I was a little worried purchasing such a large item over the internet but your helpful service allayed those fears. I will certainly recommend you to anyone I know who is thinking of purchasing a new car. Once again, thank you”
Michael Alger - Milton Keynes - Jan 2005

“My new car has been delivered safely. I thank you for your excellent service and kind attention. What a superb way to buy a new car.”
Peter Bleasdale - Lancashire - Oct 2004

“The car turned up on Wednesday afternoon and it seems to be in perfect condition. I thought I should write to thank you for what has been, in the main, a very smooth transaction indeed. I have been very pleased with the whole process from the ease of use of your web site, to the helpfulness and friendlyness of your sales team and finally the payment process via Escrow.com. I was particularly impressed with the 'phone call I had from Escrow.com. They rang only minutes after I accepted the car in order to check with me that I was happy with the transaction. Although I've carried out many electronic purchases over the internet in the last few years, the purchase of something as large and expensive as a car has been a step change in my experience. My friends and colleagues have been tracking my progress and I'll certainly recommend you to them for the future.”
Keith Bywood - Derbyshire - Oct 2004

“This is our first experience of buying a car over the internet ? it has all gone very smoothly and we would certainly recommend Buyacar to others.”
Dr James Miller - London - Sep 2004

“Received vehicle on Monday. Very happy. Many thanks. Look forward to buying from you again in the future.”
Rupert Broad - London - Aug 2004

“Many thanks for your friendly and efficient service ? we could not have found a better deal elsewhere.”
Helen Roberts - Essex - Jul 2004

“Car delivered on time as promised and to full specification as stated, very pleased with the whole process and will certainly recommend to friends and family. I was very impressed with the smooth way the transaction took place from order to delivery.”
John Lee - Hampshire - Jul 2004

“Just thought I'd drop you a line to say thank you and tell you how delighted I am with my new car. I found my dealings with Buyacar hassle free and felt that it all went very smoothly indeed - so cheers for that.”
Tom Underwood - Oxfordshire - Jul 2004

“Thanks for the service, car looks great!!”
Mark Collier - London - Jun 2004