USED Vauxhall VX220 Open (00 - 06)

My car

Absolutely stunning car - blistering performance at low(ish) cost.

My first piece of advice is to look past the badge. Several people have asked me why I didn't buy a Lotus. My response has always been that the little plastic disc on the front can't possibly be worth another £3,500. In fact, the car is so rare, the majority of the general public don't know what it is - I've been asked if it is a Ferrari or Lamborghini!

The comfort levels are basic, but adequate. I haven't had any major issues in the last 42,000 miles, although there are some minor niggles in terms of build quality that you will always get with a hand-built car. Dealer support is patchy, so if you find a good one, stick with them! There is also a very active Owner's Club on www.vx220.org.uk.

Performance and handling is stunning, easily putting more exotic machinery to shame. Leaving the factory, the car has a good deal of understeer dialled in, but this can be easily corrected by any number of aftermarket tuners. If 200bhp isn't sufficient for your needs, it is also relatively easy to increase the output.

In short, this is an anazing piece of machinery that will leave my possession only when I can't drive anymore.

My car

My VX is a year old and I love it. It is spectacularly satisfying to drive, each control tingles with "feel". The engine does not dominate the car, the handling of the car is just as impressive as that immensely torquey and tractable motor. I'm 6'5" and 16.5 stone and find it tolerably comfortable. I use another car for shopping and in bad weather (snow or very heavy rain). I use it every day (at least 30 miles) through heavy traffic and on open roads. The car is quite happy in traffic, the controls are light, making city driving a painless experience. Downsides are poor rear visibility, a tiny fuel tank, the heater is marginal and the seals above the doors leak a little. I'm not going to elaborate on the lack of equipment or the thinly padded seats because they are all part of the appeal. I am very, very happy with my car. Reliablity has been fine and the service I have received has been exemplary. I don’t believe GM are planning a replacement and as only 2,500 units are planned, classic status is almost assured. My final word is that this car will not suit everyone. The VX is not an alternative to a TT roadster, Z4 or Boxster. Treat it as what it is, a pure driving tool with enough practicality to drive it every day and you can't go wrong.