simes

Here's an interesting point... the 85th percentile rule is accepted by road traffic experts world wide as valid. It states, that the 85th percentile of traffic speed down a road is the safe speed for that road - if it's dangerous people will slow down - if it's not people will go faster irrespective of a posted limit. The speed (sorry saftey) camera guidlines for locating the camera state that a camera can only be located where the 85th percentile exceeds the speedlimit (apart from roadworks - I totally agree in roadworks camera should be present tea break or not). i.e. only put a camera where the majority of road users think it's safe to brake the speed limit. So speed cameras are therefore not put where the 85th percentile (normal drivers) think that it's dangerous and the dangerous 15th percentile are actually causing a larger hazard than they would otherwise, but rather where normal safe traffic flow encourages a driver to break the speed limit... Simon.

Newb here, just looking at an IS250 as a more suitable option to the 300.... I've been talking to the dealers this week (bolton) who have been brilliant by the way (Mike Tighe), thinks I would prefer a 250 to a 300... I'm waiting to see prices and specs for the cars they will get before I put my preorder down - then confirm subject to test drive (late October)... The standard stereo according to the pre-release brochure is a 13 speaker pioneer 6CD with MP3 and WMA support - something the 14 speaker ML doesn't have. There is an autoexpress first drive that suggests BMW should be worried with the 3 series. The optional satnav looks very like the GS one - indeed the centre console is very similar- although the IS still has the handbrake. It also doesn't get the pull down hidden buttons on the GS these functions seem to be on the door. The 6-speed auto gets a flappy paddle setup... the seats have optional heating and fan assisted ventilation... leather appears to be optional. The IS250 doesn't get VDIM the diesel will as an option but won't be here until 06. The IS gets the keyless go from the GS and LED based cabin lights. the 250 is rated @ 204hp @ 6400 with 250nm torque @ 3800 - sounds good to me. Simon.