Dar

@Flytvr - why not keep your RCF and buy a German monster of your liking - living with a car is very different from owning one. We are 'relatively' sensible petrol-heads after-all! 😀

Hi All, my mate runs an 18 reg c63s saloon which I drove for a couple weeks while he was away on holidays and it is such an epic car. The acceleration in the dry is epic! In the wet my A45 will leave him for dead for sure! The sound is also amazing! No need for aftermarket exhaust. The interior is the same as my A45 which is no bad thing, seats are very supportive and although I'm not a fan of the mounted screen you quickly get used to it, plus the graphics is better than on the new Lexus RX450H in my opinion (loan car while my F was getting some new pads). Of course, the car is new(ish) therefore not enough wear and tear to cause any issues as yet, however he hasn't had any issues to date. Based on my own experience, it is likely that a Lexus will be more reliable than a merc, however if you like a car then arm yourself with a comprehensive warranty then dive right it and enjoy the experience! D

After a long day in the office, that has really cracked me up! 😂 Actually...that has given me some ideas for my advert wording...lol!

Unscheduled costs to me going on 2.5 years of ownership: - £20 exhaust tips - one side fell off - Two left tyres replaced after side walls punctured No warranty but have a 3yr service plan.

Hi @Peter P18 - I must echo my utter amazement in what you have achieved! That's some very impressive numbers! I think the chassis and gearbox on the ISF's can handle the power! not sure about traction, but, I bet it will put a grin on your face!! I am impressed! Great quality of work also by the garage! see you around fella!

Hey Crew! Sorry I wasn't able to make the Welsh Blat! It looked and sounded like fun and was a good drive with beautiful landscapes! I however couldn't resist accepting a breakwith this amazing view...slightly different from the stunning views in Wales! Plus, my misses would have killed me if I had said no, I wasn't coming to Spain and instead chose to go to Wales with a bunch of blokes! lol!

@flytvr is yours stock? I kinda recall from the blat that you said it was??

Borla catback exhaust, K&N air intake system, subtle rear diffuser, vaistech wireless audio module and larger tyres all round. And, hopefully, I'll get the USRS kit.

Lovely machine! looks well cared for. I remember a friend's of mine dad having one in the early 90's. This one is defo a Jap import...it reminds of of the mk1 MR2 from Toyota.

I drove the RC (300h) as a loan car for a day, it is a lovely package but it isnt for me. I'm 6.2" so there's little space at the back for one of my lil' ones (I have 3). If I'm to stay with the Lexus brand when I change my car next year, it'll have to be the GSF. I'd love the LC (in spite of limited leg room at the rear) however, that will be out of my budget still. I nearly committed to an E63 last month, but it didn't feel like twice the car that the ISF is...at least that was my reasoning....I keep changing my mind on what I want....grrrrr!!!!

I've only seen one other ISF in the SE of London in two years of ownership - a black one with a private plate. Seen 7 other ISFs in Wales though - all at once! The black ones seem to have the loudest exhaust @Rusty Crobar!!

Great colour combo @Defratos! She looks good! Grey ones are the fastest! LOL!

Hey @Big Rat! all well mate! How are things? It's the full cat back setup. The tips are stock though. I purchased it with the Borla exhaust already installed. I've been lazy and I've only added a subtle rear diffuser in 2yrs or so ownership.

Having heard the exhaust sounds on the standard ISFs on the Welsh blat, though a lovely v8 note, I do like the extra beefiness that my aftermarket Borla exhaust emanates especially above the magic 3500 rpm number...very addictive indeed! Of course, there are other less costly options, but anyone that's thinking of it I'd say go for it! I use mine as a daily drive and boy it helps make typically boring journeys a tad more enjoyable..well worth the £££!

I'll make time for it...

Hey Pete, I'll be there no probs. Only 30mins away. cheers, D

Hi Wesley, I've gone the Vaistech route because I wanted to use the built-in touch screen and the steering wheel controls (mainly to change my songs in spotify). Of course, I can then use the maps from my phone (android OS) and any other app running on my smartphone on the larger ISF screen (relative to my smartphone). Relatively easy to install and keeps it all looking OEM. Welcome to the club!

The calendar seems clear on the 25th. I'll check with the Boss when I get home this evening. I've missed the last couple. D

I totally agree - go the long way home once or twice per week! and in a v8 it will be fun (roads permitting). I usually run my engine for a short while before driving off in any case and would recommend it if you are able to do so (without vexing the neighbours)!

@Rusty Crobar I agree, but...it would be nice to have, wouldn't it??! The chassis and transmission can easily cope with an extra 80-160bhp think. Would I?... even if I had the cash...maybe, only just!

Agreed, however in my case I'd swap the reliability (35%) and rarity figures (15%) round. I've spent too much on Mercs and BMW repairs in my lifetime (for now at least)!

Hey @Flytvr! I'd recommend a Lexus RX (any of the Hybrid versions that your budget can afford). I replaced my wife's RX400H last year with 178K on the clock (regular family trips to Devon over the years) and it was reliable and relatively powerful for easy overtakes but also quiet on the motorway. Stereo sound quality was good also. One with a sunroof and leather would not be too bad. Don't use the Lexus recommended Eco tyres though - awful traction! Good luck! It'll be interesting to see what you go for!

I think that's @Big Rat making a run for it after nicking @Mark G's wheel nut! lol!

Hi All, that was an epic blat! Great bunch of guys, great roads, great weather and, of course, the cars! I'm ready for another one...summer anyone? Arrived home safely just after 6pm, got out and tapped her on the boot - well done car! Oh! Really good hotel with friendly staff!

That's an amazing job Mike. I'd be kidding myself if I say that I'll have a go at doing something similar within the next couple months...I'd just either get bored, do a bad job, go to the pub instead or be asked to change nappies...lol!