Car appreciation... the aesthetics, the engineering, etc

If you get another chance, go for it. Chimaera would be a great choice. Relatively simple (certainly not much more complex to the MG) but with proper v8 thrills. Don't cost tonnes to run either as most parts are rover/ford.

i have reached an agreement with the enemy that means she will sign off the forms for a new car when i finish my college course. the details have not been thrashed out, but i think it will mean that i have to get rid of the flying courgette - as much as i'd love to keep it.

so, in for the next two years i get to compile a shortlist of ~15k cars.

sweet.