Platinum Grey Leon FR TDI Hybrid - The End!

[jonjay]

My cousin works for Porsche in Colchester (sales) and we were up there last week with a Turbo up on the ramps having one of its major services. The engine was on a hydraulic lift at the side of it whilst they were "inspecting it". My point - find out about all of the routine service elements cos they aint gonna be cheap!!!

Just had an exhaust back box on the M3 under warranty - it would have cost £760+vat, + £120 fitting and not many warranties other than main dealer would have covered it for what was actually wrong with it. My next point - get a cast iron (probably main dealer "approved used" scheme) warranty on these types of cars - its worth every penny!!

Exhaust issue here.
Exhaust fixed here.

Fuel costs ????? Live with it....... 22mpg average - its worth it!!

Last thing - tyres. Ouch. Heavy wear, heavy costs, no such thing as a budget tyre on these!! £1k per set.

Yea I am slowly finding out about all these sorts of costs. The good thing is the 911 T wont be an everyday car. Might only drive her of an evening or at the weekends.

Do you intend on returning your car to standard? As in, selling some of the goodies?

Not sure yet. DK already PM'ed me for the r32 wheel and there is some premium parts on here that could easily sell. Part of me wants to car to go as a package to the next owner. Drove her last night and everything was spot on, there arnt many hot hatch diesels so well setup as her in the country thats for sure.

Bad times but also goot times, Maz (I know how you feel about loosing jobs )

I also DEMAND that you come oop norf and give my car a good detail

I am sure the 911T will help me forget

Wish i could Dam You should come visit down south instead!

 

[jonjay]

Time to move on

I have been weighing up my options and the 911 has moved further down the pecking order not for financial reasons but other ones.

More I think about it, talk it through with friends, think about what my weekly habits are the more a car like the BMW 335D or the e90 M3 make more sense. I always felt if I went forward and got the porker that I would keep it for 2 years and when the wedding is over and the baby comes it will have to be sold. The thought of this makes me think getting one is pointless as I wouldnt enjoy it knowing it could go soon as my life moves forward.

So after a lot of thought I have settled with getting an e90 M3. I went to BMW today, got a brochure and booked a test drive for this Saturday. Explained briefly my budget and they seemed happy that they could get me in one. I am really excited but nervous that I might not like it.

All in all my mind is made up and the Leon is going. Not sure I have the time to sell privately but if anyone is interested in the car or the parts (ported head just sitting here) then let me know. Would rather her go as a package as its a complete car that will bring a smile to anyones face.

S3 AKR (sorry mate my mind has gone blank with your name ) we may need to have a chat!

 

[S3 AKR]

I'll give you the low down mate! Drop me a pm with your number and I'll text mine over to you.


Andy

 

[jonjay]

Cheers Andy, PM sent

 

[t0m]

Will be sad to see it go Maz!!

 

[jonjay]

Will be sad to see it go Maz!!

Yea it will be heartbreaking. Just hope someone wants it from SCN so it stays in the family and doesnt get auctioned off. Who wouldnt want hybrid, kw v3's a diff and big brakes on a derv?

 

[jenk]

I can't see you having a problem selling it as a whole, fantastic motor.

 

[Husbandofstinky]

Oh Maz

Imo you definitely need more time on this, Porsche one week, BMW the next... All I'd say is give it plenty more time, sleep on it and give plenty more time again. Suffice to say at least until Christmas!

A major(ish) financial decision like this and time is not an issue other than the wants of an individual.

Other readers may look at this and see it as jealously possibly but you know where I'm coming from. I'm not saying change your mind again but if either of the above i.e the BMW is still there in a couple of months time as 'yes it is absolutely the right decision' still then go for it.

Tbh I don't think the running costs of an M3 compared to a Porsche will not be too indifferent. Mpg the same, insurance the same, repairs/servicing the M3 may be a bit cheaper but not by silly amounts I reckon.

You have time and plenty of it, make this a head decision with the element of the heart cemented into that.

Some how I think all will be lost as you sign up on Saturday. It'll be like looking at a puppy - 'oh we'll just go for a look', heart strings etc. and you'll end up walking away with one. Good salesmen are proficient in their jobs.

At least try not to sign up on Saturday

 

[Husbandofstinky]

For the record, I still think the Leon as a daily and 'x' as a weekend/evening car/toy is the right way to go.

You mentioned weddings/baby and Porsche getting sold would be tough, how will it be with the Leon if you go down the BM route?

The only way you'll ever get any sort of money back is stripping it (a la DPJ/Pat) and I'm sure you don't want to do that. Selling lock stock will be heart breaking due to the amount of time, effort and money you've put in her. The car is running right as she should be (where you wanted it) and now is the time to enjoy the fruits of your labour (and not getting stitched up in car valuations).

Having multiple cars also creates the appreciation for each one in their own right. iirc last year you'd had enough with the Leon and was going to get rid of her (pipework). I'm in the same view as last year and trust me I reckon getting rid of her is the wrong thing to do (imo).

As with anything, 'grass is greener' etc., you won't realise how much you'll miss her until she's finally gone.

Imo the two car option is the right way to go.

 

[EmDee]

zomg Maz

i hope you know what you're doing bud.

I really hope it works out for you, good luck with it.

 

[UncleFester]

Ok i will post an alternative view.

1. It's a car, like me, Maz has other ones on his list he'd like to try.
2. If you strip the car, you have to drive around in a boggo one whilst the parts are sold.
3. By the time you've sold all the modded bits and fitted all the stock bits you realise how dull the standard car is.
4. Then you remember why you wanted to change the car in the first place and then that reminds you what a waste of money it is modding them to this level.
5. You WILL make far more back stripping it and selling the parts seperately.

Buy a beater. Collect the various standard parts over the winter months and get yours put back to standard. Sell the parts and the standard car.

Then decide what you want to do early next year, then you get rid of the Leon and give yourself some thinking space.

I DO regret selling the Leon, I don't regret buying the S2000 and when it's time to get something else, I will feel exactly the same

 

[jonjay]

Will give a detailed reply to all when I get back home.

 

[t0m]

Yea it will be heartbreaking. Just hope someone wants it from SCN so it stays in the family and doesnt get auctioned off. Who wouldnt want hybrid, kw v3's a diff and big brakes on a derv?

And probably the most/best detailed one in the country. Plus the complete superpro bush kit it's rolling! That's next on my list to do...

Fingers crossed someone decent buys it.. If I had the spare cash I'd have it off you to be my cars brother! Haha..

 

[Husbandofstinky]

Will give a detailed reply to all when I get back home.

I don't think you should though. Time.



Pat in an ideal world your Leon as a daily driver and the Honda as a weekend/evening toy?

For the record 'the ideal world' doesn't mean Aston during the week and Zonda for the weekend.

Trying for a realistic proposition that's all (assuming enough space etc).

No more caveats, you know what I mean....

 

[UncleFester]

Down to cash flow ultimately - i can't afford and refuse point blank to spend money running two cars. If that's an option for Maz then fair play to him but it's not for me

 

[S3 AKR]

I have the Tolly as the daily driver, and the M3 as the weekend/long journey car. The running costs for fuel alone are a lot higher than my Leon was - twice as much fuel for a start!!! 22.9mpg is about my average. Its been as high as 26mpg, and as low as 12mpg!!! £85 = 260miles as a real world rule of thumb.

I have had a long chat with Maz on the phone tonight and explained very honestly my experiences, good and bad with my M3 so far and my overall word of warning is not to underestimate those running costs, get a proper warranty (preferably BMW Approved Used or factory), as many service items resolved in the deal before you buy it, and know what it will need over the next 2 to 3 years in terms of spend on standard service items (brake pads/discs, diff oil, services, plugs, tyres, filters etc etc). Go in eyes wide open and it shouldn't be a painful experience! The cars are amazing, but for me and my bank balance, not an everyday car - hence the Tolly!

 

[jonjay]

Will be sad to see it go Maz!!

All good things come to an end. I just need a change now.

I can't see you having a problem selling it as a whole, fantastic motor.

Thanks mate, I hope so too!

Oh Maz

Imo you definitely need more time on this, Porsche one week, BMW the next... All I'd say is give it plenty more time, sleep on it and give plenty more time again. Suffice to say at least until Christmas!

A major(ish) financial decision like this and time is not an issue other than the wants of an individual.

Other readers may look at this and see it as jealously possibly but you know where I'm coming from. I'm not saying change your mind again but if either of the above i.e the BMW is still there in a couple of months time as 'yes it is absolutely the right decision' still then go for it.

Tbh I don't think the running costs of an M3 compared to a Porsche will not be too indifferent. Mpg the same, insurance the same, repairs/servicing the M3 may be a bit cheaper but not by silly amounts I reckon.

You have time and plenty of it, make this a head decision with the element of the heart cemented into that.

Some how I think all will be lost as you sign up on Saturday. It'll be like looking at a puppy - 'oh we'll just go for a look', heart strings etc. and you'll end up walking away with one. Good salesmen are proficient in their jobs.

At least try not to sign up on Saturday

For the record, I still think the Leon as a daily and 'x' as a weekend/evening car/toy is the right way to go.

You mentioned weddings/baby and Porsche getting sold would be tough, how will it be with the Leon if you go down the BM route?

The only way you'll ever get any sort of money back is stripping it (a la DPJ/Pat) and I'm sure you don't want to do that. Selling lock stock will be heart breaking due to the amount of time, effort and money you've put in her. The car is running right as she should be (where you wanted it) and now is the time to enjoy the fruits of your labour (and not getting stitched up in car valuations).

Having multiple cars also creates the appreciation for each one in their own right. iirc last year you'd had enough with the Leon and was going to get rid of her (pipework). I'm in the same view as last year and trust me I reckon getting rid of her is the wrong thing to do (imo).

As with anything, 'grass is greener' etc., you won't realise how much you'll miss her until she's finally gone.

Imo the two car option is the right way to go.

I have definitely thought about this Lee. As you know from our lengthy chats I have been thinking Porsche for a long time but when push comes to shove I think it will ruin the social side of things for me. Knowing I cant do certain trips in the Porsche bugs me a little. Yes it is solved with having two cars but thats not something I can afford and I will end up not driving the Porsche as much as I would want to.

If I am 100% honest the main concern for me is my Mrs not being comfortable with a Porker sitting on the drive and the image that it might represent to others. She will worry herself to bits which will then force me to constantly garage the car which isnt a bad thing. I don't even think that wont stop her worrying which is not something I want to put her through. Her little heart will just about handle the M3 lol!

I dont think the two car option is possible for me Lee although as you know my situation better than most you may disagree. I DO hear what you are saying and value your opinion more than most but I have thought this through thoroughly (you know me). As I do little miles (around 5k a year) and always have the option to use Mrs car for those long journeys then having a car like the M3 shouldn't destroy me completely.

I know what you mean about the Leon and it will be hard to see her go but I just dont get the same feeling anymore. It truly is a weapon and I am 100% sure that it can destroy most hatches on the road especially on twisty roads but its for someone else to enjoy now. She has served me well.

zomg Maz

i hope you know what you're doing bud.

I really hope it works out for you, good luck with it.

Cheers Marty.

Ok i will post an alternative view.

1. It's a car, like me, Maz has other ones on his list he'd like to try.
2. If you strip the car, you have to drive around in a boggo one whilst the parts are sold.
3. By the time you've sold all the modded bits and fitted all the stock bits you realise how dull the standard car is.
4. Then you remember why you wanted to change the car in the first place and then that reminds you what a waste of money it is modding them to this level.
5. You WILL make far more back stripping it and selling the parts seperately.

Buy a beater. Collect the various standard parts over the winter months and get yours put back to standard. Sell the parts and the standard car.

Then decide what you want to do early next year, then you get rid of the Leon and give yourself some thinking space.

I DO regret selling the Leon, I don't regret buying the S2000 and when it's time to get something else, I will feel exactly the same

Unfortunately a lot of the standard parts have not been kept so gives me very a few options. No Accessories for Sale section makes things difficult. Hopefully someone wants my car!

And probably the most/best detailed one in the country. Plus the complete superpro bush kit it's rolling! That's next on my list to do...

Fingers crossed someone decent buys it.. If I had the spare cash I'd have it off you to be my cars brother! Haha..

Thanks for the kind words mate, means a lot! You wont regret bushes, it gels everything together.

I don't think you should though. Time.



Pat in an ideal world your Leon as a daily driver and the Honda as a weekend/evening toy?

For the record 'the ideal world' doesn't mean Aston during the week and Zonda for the weekend.

Trying for a realistic proposition that's all (assuming enough space etc).

No more caveats, you know what I mean....

Down to cash flow ultimately - i can't afford and refuse point blank to spend money running two cars. If that's an option for Maz then fair play to him but it's not for me

I dont think I can run two cars and anyway I already own another car! My Mrs has a Seat Ibiza 1.6 CR which is more economical than mine and cheap as chips to run.

I have the Tolly as the daily driver, and the M3 as the weekend/long journey car. The running costs for fuel alone are a lot higher than my Leon was - twice as much fuel for a start!!! 22.9mpg is about my average. Its been as high as 26mpg, and as low as 12mpg!!! £85 = 260miles as a real world rule of thumb.

I have had a long chat with Maz on the phone tonight and explained very honestly my experiences, good and bad with my M3 so far and my overall word of warning is not to underestimate those running costs, get a proper warranty (preferably BMW Approved Used or factory), as many service items resolved in the deal before you buy it, and know what it will need over the next 2 to 3 years in terms of spend on standard service items (brake pads/discs, diff oil, services, plugs, tyres, filters etc etc). Go in eyes wide open and it shouldn't be a painful experience! The cars are amazing, but for me and my bank balance, not an everyday car - hence the Tolly!

Andy, what an epic chat we had. I dont think I can thank you enough for giving me the quality and volume of advise over 1.5 hours you gave. Not sure I can really say more than that apart from I read all your threads and made a big list to take with me to the dealers this Saturday.

 

[t0m]

I can't believe this RR will be coming to an end!

 

[jonjay]

Unfortunately so t0m.

The for sale thread should be approved and up soon

 

[Husbandofstinky]

I know that you will not make any rash decisions on the subject (I am sure that it is quite simply not in your nature to), however I should just like to confirm for the benefit of all that my view is not negative in the slightest and that my opinion of any big decision making (where time is not an issue) is always best resolved with time. The bigger the decision the greater time is necessary where available. Should after that time the solution is still the same then 90+% of the time it is the right one and not some costly mistake.

This is not a case of affordability imo, just a case of attaining the best solution as possible given your remit.

I still think that you should not make any concrete decisions on Saturday and give it at least a week.

And go and test drive a 911 please (if you have not already done so) and give that some time afterwards too. In fact try a few other possibilities too (RS4 say etc) and savour the moment. Part of the enjoyment of the process are the options too (whether right or wrong) and enjoying every minute of it. As said previously time is on your side. Enjoy.