Yeah but paying over a hundred grand for a used daily is insanity. Lately their picks are just totally out of reach for most. They used to have cool affordable cars on the channel for review.
I don't often congratulate myself with RUclips channels that talk about cars but I gotta make an exception here. You guys are a rare case of a RUclips channel consisting of people that actually KNOW about cars. You don't make any assumption according to the brand, you actually objectively evaluate every single model. What you said about the Giulia and the Abarth in this video, for example, proves it.
Just want to say Redriven is may be the best cars channel on RUclips, the best mix between carwow (because Adam is really cool or cooler than mat Watson), throttle house, because the cars reviewed are really nice and interesting, and MCM because of « whats goes wrong » and really good mechanic advice from Jim. Massive thumbs up for you guys, you deserve millions more subscribers 👍🏼
You had me at E39 540. 😁 I’ve owned 3 of them over the years. Also owned a Hellrot Red E39 M5 for 4 years without a single issue. I’m bloody 62 now and am heading towards a Lexus LS430/460 but damnit I’m not there yet. 😂 Hopefully I’ve got an A6 Allroad and a RS4 Avant left in me before I go full pensioner. 😳🙄 I must admit that I was an early sceptic of your channel but now really enjoy it. However could I suggest the following: Please spend less time pushing and prodding the interior cubby holes like you’ve got ADD and more time talking to us about the vehicle while you’re actually driving it. We don’t live in ’Oshtralia’. 😂 Keep up the great work guys. Love the tech/mech advice. You’ve seriously stopped me making some really bad decisions. Really enjoyed this video. Thanks for all your efforts guys.
Loved my e39 540i was very reliable pcv valve and serpentine belt in 4 yrs.Fast too. The traction control? Saved me and put me back on line in a wet roundabout as if the car took over the steering etc.Amazing for an old car.
Jim brought up a good point, how much car do you really need? Good a/c, quality materials, good phone connectivity and some cup holders that work. Newer cars, especially in the upscale segment, are waaaaay too packed with gizmos that are not at all necessary. It’s like a competition between car brands of who can think up the latest fad or blingy feature. Simple and good quality would be such a welcome change in the car world.
On another channel the tech goes over issues with newer cars. One of the tragic things is the swapping out of physical controls for touch screens. What a disaster. If those screens ever suffer a problem, you can't fix them. $8000 unit replacement cost for new, and only a few thousand less for used. Car makers needs to stop this overly complicated instrumentation and control trend.
Note on the Tiguan vs Macan - totally different cars underneath. Macan (MLB) shares its platform with the Audi Q5 and has more similarities to the Cayenne/Touareg (MLB Evo) than the Tiguan (MQB), particularly gearbox and engine layout (longitudinal vs transverse). Because the Macan/Q5 is longitudinal it is also not haldex - it is a permanent torsen 4WD system. Tiguan is fundamentally a Golf chassis.
I'm a bloody Volvo driver. The 20 yo V50 still goes as good as new. So practical. Most reliable. I look after it and it looks after me. It's a wagon and Jim didn't even mention it. 🙁
Bought my first Volvo, an 2014 XC90. Has just over 200,000km now and is in excellent condition. I love this car and it's so much more car for the money here it's not even close. Love it.
curious if u are in dry climate? These have had a lot of leaks of water ingress. I like them too but was put off by quality issues, so i'd love to know as much from u as possible wrt maintenance, things to look out for, etc?
I love my E39 535i, owned since 2009. Worth so little now I decided to put it on historic rego and keep it as a weekender alongside a new car. Why give it away for nothing when it’s so lovely to drive. As you say, parts backup is still good too and reliability pretty good for an old banger.
My personal choices: Saloon - Audi RS6 (C6) Estate - Volkswagen Passat (B6/7/8), BMW E39 5 Series SUV - Volvo XC90 Pickup - Volkswagen Amarok (Mark I) Van - Volkswagen Transporter/Citroen Berlingo Cabriolet/Coupe - Audi Cabriolet/Coupe
The Audi RS6 Avant finally made it to USA shores. What a beauty. It's just so tragically expensive new. I'm waiting a few years for a well cared for used one!
My dad had a Fiat 500…. Had to spend $10k on it to be able to sell it but then only got $13k after it being advertised for many months. And the seating position and jerky semi-auto transmission - two of the most horrible things I’ve ever experienced in a car!
Best European car to buy is a Suzuki Swift Sport with a Quaife limited slip differential installed, as Quaife are an English manufacturer, that qualifies in my book. Hamatsu Japan, enhanced with a special sauce from Kent UK.
Great video! As a European I appreciate you going the extra mile. To bad no Volvo's were in there tho :( Volvo V60 crosscountry looks great and feels great to me.
the diesel alfa romeos are fantastic. new model 2.2 diesels are good engines and the older 159s have a real nice 2.4 5 cylinder diesel - i have one and man is it a great all rounder and not all that bad to maintain for the car you get with it
@ pretty decent! the main thing is avidly avoiding the dealership and using reputable parts distributors. I use spareto (based in estonia) and get parts shipped to NZ if i need to. but it’s not too bad
I hear ya on the e39. I’ve had one for over 10 years now and the parts availability and public knowledge on maintenance and repairs is excellent. Mine with the m54 has over 420 000km on it with the original transmission.
23:06 I bought a finale edition M140i last year cause I believe it will be a future classic being rwd and having a turbo 6, have driven it like it should be driven and had no issues at all. Only had 42 thousand k's on it and was $53k.
Yea totally agree on the Octi wagon. Love mine to bits! Surprised there was no VW Golf in there tbh, it’s such a staple diet in Euro circles. Great vid as always guys! 👍
I've got a fast F31 in Sydney if you want to review it. Alpina D3 Biturbo. My personal import from the UK. It was the fastest production diesel when it was released 👀
@@brockrose8062 it was a personal import. Quite easy, you need to have owned it for 12months or more over there. Used a company called Iron Lady Imports. Great to deal with
Got an Escape (2L turbo AWD) for my dear old mum and it has been an absolute winner for her for the past 4 years. Massively underrated. Properly good to drive and a lot quicker than you'd ever guess by looking at it!
I really would like to commend you guys for enlightening some of us who are not that much conversant with motor vehicles! Thank you and keep up the good job of thoroughly analysing the general problems of these cars for us👍
I had a 2016 Ford Kuga (Escape) Trend with 2 ltr turbo AWD. Was a great car. Good handling and ride. Quick off the line. Recently traded in as the transmission was starting to fail, apparently a common problem. Now have a Subaru Outback XT Touring. Might be calling in for a service soon , Jim.
They make a video about reliable European cars and leave out reliable cars and put cars that are real money pits. I saw no mention of the 1.9 TDI engine from the VAG group, I see no mention of the Clio RS (versions without turbo), are some examples.
Love you guys, just the best car nuts on the web. I am lucky to own two of your favourite vehicles a 2009 MX5 NC2 Touring soft top and a 2000 E39 525i (owned since 2002). Whilst the 525 is not the sportiest engine in the E39, even at 250,000kms it still spins to the redline without fuss or vibration, is economical and with Bilstein shocks and sports coils will out handle most new vehicles. The steering the chassis response is without peer and simply brilliant for a 25 yo vehicle and early to see why this is THE best chassis and beautiful looking BMW has ever produced. It is relatively economical and since sorting out early electrical gremlins it has been a very reliable daily drive. Keep up the great work.
You guys are the equivalent of down to earth Afrikaans guys here in South Africa. Straightforward, honest and real. Even with Adam's pretentious coffees 😂. There's nothing wrong with being a wanker. The best used vehicles channel. I bought my Lexus RX because of this channel, despite being a dyed in the wool BMW fan.
In Europe you can get the VW Up with an ASG automatic, which is a manual transmission but with a robot controlling the clutch. It’s very slow at changing gears.
I’m on my second Audi, my A4 B8 2.0 TDI Quattro is almost 10 years old. 75000km and it’s awesome, looks great and with an RSNAV upgrade (which I did myself) it’s great. I still get comments when people see it. I’m 2 for 2 on Audis, but always serviced at every interval at the dealer and from my perspective it has paid for itself to do this. The Alfa is soooo gorgeous though.
@@blackvulcan3 the algo's/AI is so not cool now! Great to know u like your A4. I'm a yank so we only have petrol engines very unfortunately, given that the E888 petrols are really the only truely horrible engines per durability that Vag ever made. Sad times here.
As a tow truck driver, the BMW problem we often strike is, will it go into neutral? The vehicles with that shifter usually won't if the motor doesn't run. So then you're skull dragging it onto the truck and shaking it off. There's a release under the car but you need to pull off a panel and wind it up with a torx bit or similar. Is this going to be same with the Ineos when it inevitably won't start? I've asked a few people, but so far nobody knows. I'd assume you can just chuck the transfer case lever in neutral and it'll roll. But has it got neutral?
Most of the picks that you guys chose aren't really surprising if you watch the reviews regularly lol 😂. If money was no problem the European cars I'd look at are the Lancia Stratos and Lancia Delta Integrale Evolutione 1 or 2. Hopefully after the Euro cars to avoid you'll do Asians cars to consider and avoid as there are quite a few from people I've spoken to that are avoid at all cost Asian cars. Hope Hullsy had a good father's day and all the teams dads had a good one as well. Great job as always guys and as always keep up the good work and look forward to next week's videos as per usual 👍.
Everyone is sleeping on the BMW M140i, petrol turbo, 6cyl (B58) RWD, 5 door hatch with 350hp and a 50/50 weight balance. Can’t find a better all-rounders
@@ivanjovanovic362If one is going for the 340i , it is really close to 5 series price especially when buying used and something like a 540i offers better suspension and much more imho
Adam back in 2017 I bought a Skoda Superb Sportline 206kw 4WD wagon. The ONLY other car I considered was the Octavia RS wagon. I just liked the all paw control, the carrying capacity, the limo comfort & the 206kw engine on tap. Still got it, I keep all the services up to date & have no intentions of getting rid of it… Unless someone throws me a few hundred grand for the Audi RS6!🥰🤤🤣
I would also say the W212 Mercedes E-class are very solid cars, with great physical and interior reliability. They're used as taxis in Europe and many cars have colossal mileages, but still look very good. Getting a later model car with a diesel engine will serve you very well!
Good job Adam for calling out Ford Escape. Especially the current gen is criminally underrated (‘invisible’ is perhaps a better descriptor) in Australia. Packed with features, safety and tech, dynamically one of the best medium SUVs there is, and such a sleeper - the 2.0l turbo is standard fitment and has better performance than the entry level Porsche Macan. It’s bananas and it’s insane not more people who actually enjoy driving caught on to this.
Not sure I agree with this one. A friend of mine has one, and even though it's low kms (something around 60,000km) it suffered a head gasket failure that cost him thousands to get sorted. When he researched it, he found out it's very common and in the US there's currently a class action against Ford for it. The head gaskets are apparently an inferior quality part that just isn't up to the task
Never fear! We are out there! I bought a 2.0 turbo Escape, largely in part because of your video. It's a quick thing, but now I'm just saving up the $$$ to get a cheeky tune to make it a weapon.
As an owner of a post-facelift bimmer 320d with the 8-speed ZF auto, it's an amazing car. Everything I'd ever need and it's genuenly fast, 190hp, 8.0s to 100kph is no joke.
I can still remember in the 1970s in Malaysia when Japanese cars were cheap and nasty. There was a famous saying here that they were made of "Milo" tin. I remember pushing in the side panels of a new Datsun 120Y, and it just flexed in. And it really gave the feeling of floating when driven, and being so light and soft. Malaysians who bought Japanese cars then were considered fools and gambling with their lives. Everyone considered European cars as the best cars around, especially Mercedes Benzes. And they had a point. Those Mercedes Benzes which were made up to the 1990s, prior to the Chrysler tie-up were over-engineered and reliable to a fault. You never, ever, saw a Mercedes Benz breakdown on the emergency lane on the highway. If you did see one, it probably had been involved in an accident, and the other car usually came of the worst! Yet, within a decade or so, Japanese cars had become reliable and sophisticated, putting the sword to European and American cars. Today, only certain British and European brands have survived but many European and British brands are now held by Chinese companies. Korean cars followed the same pattern in 1990s, and Chinese cars in the 2010s. Just the normal cycle of developing countries becoming developed as their products leaves the cheap and nasty cycle, to becoming expensive and reliable. Oh, and a reliable Alfa Romeo is not a Alfa Romeo :)
Oh my god! I worked at a US Benz dealer through the late 1980s. “Reliable to a fault” is total complete BS, take that from the guy that worked on them every freaking day and drove the Benz roadside assistance service Wagon on the weekends after fixing all the defects( warranty work out the ass endlessly)liked the way they drove handled went through puddles early safety features. But “reliability never breaks” total myth.
The early diesels 60s, 70s were pretty tank like and reasonably reliable in a warm climate and ok in countries where acceleration not a issue ( remember the D stands for dog) good to have dirt roads though because after about 50k the engines are wet wet wet with oil pouring out the main crank seals. Also had many defective brake master cylinder s in mid 70s, some strange hidden rust issues too since 120y rust buckets ( US DATSUN B210) were mentioned. In the 80s the new 124 bodies ( and several other all new bodies 126 - s class the little 190s 220 something body lots of new engines came out)300E came out and were chalk full of issues( in US some parts shared world wide many parts sourced in China from then on) defects: front suspension vibration needed redesign part, AC/ climate control needed all new warranty replacement enhancement, valve guides no good,piston slap,numerous tran problems, sunroof, power window regulators all total crap,and on and on more than my aging brain can recall;and the notorious 300e “ car just quits, cranks won’t start, that went on for years( numerous defects in wires in wiring harness) have fun with a used one some of those defects still out there unresolved there on “ survivors”
I will empathize however BENZes were a joy to drive, the soaked up the bumps and were not thrown off by deep water even at high speed or bumps in a turn at high speed. They had a tight turning radius and were delightfully light in steering yet still precise and reacted well. Very toss able as we say. So yes maybe I was overly harsh on the good old BENZes from way way back. Although I would stay away from all the old gas cars even from the 60s and 70s. And good god don’t buy an old old automatic adjustable suspension Benz from the 70s.
@@Horatio1886build Thanks for your thoughts. I must say that it is interesting how the Benzes in the US fared compared with those in Malaysia. I don't what was the difference, but the reputation of Benzes here in Malaysia was built on that reliability heritage. It used to be until recently, any successful businessman or professional would automatically buy a Benz. Later on, the younger generation would go more for BMWs. However, it used to be until the 1990s, that if you had a Benz, it would be like announcing to everyone you had arrived. You cannot imagine how widespread the ownership of Benz in Malaysia was like. A mechanic in the most out of the way area would always have Benz spare parts on hand because it was a surefire bet that any body with any money in his area would own a Benz. It was not a joke when we used to say that if you have to have a breakdown with any car, make sure it is a Benz and you were sure to have a mechanic within walking distance who would have the necessary expertise and spare parts to fix it. Oh, I really dislike modern cars now because there's too many bells and whistles in them. And more to go wrong. It always makes me feel that I need a computer science degree just to operate a modern car. And with the new global safety regulations such as the Australian NCAP, it really bugs me when there are so many warning lights and commands aimed at you from the car. I just end to switch all those off when I drive.
Awsome video. I don't know how many people buying a $30K car are going to put aside $20K to repair it. That and the fact your car is going to be off the road while you wait for it to be fixed.
About the ineos grenadier bmw shifter. I have a theory. They left the shifter as is (bmw) intentionaly, to ensure peace of mind in the buyer. Make in it more apeeling and reinsouring that you can service it at your local bmw shop(mechanic whise).
I feel like the tech that I'd miss (after a tech refresh) on the W140 would be adaptive cruise. Such a deadly feature for the long highway drives, I'm pretty much locked into having it in every car I'll consider from here on in.
Underrated and I hope we see one on the channel is a later model Saab 9-3 I had a 2.0t (bio) 2008 and it was the quirkiest but most comfortable daily I’ve ever owned and looks very nice for a fun daily for under 10k. And I found with good service history they’re no where near as unreliable as people may think.
Volkswagen Up! Owner of going on 5 years here... It is such a fun little car to get about in. 1.0 3 cyl 5 spd manual and zippy for what it is. It turns more heads than my 180sx or Harley Davidson ever did. and getting 600kms out of a 35 litre tank in todays fuel prices climate is an absolute winner! I work 10 minutes up the road and I refuel it once a month including a few trips abit further to the shops or cinemas. I always wished they released the GTI here as having a little snail on one would be a hell of alot of fun.
Same would have considered buying an UP GTI, if they were available here. Closest is the Kia Picanto GT 1.0T with a tuning box from bluesparkautomotive Otherwise next alternative is the polo gti 6c with 1.8T manual if it has to be VW
I love the look of the Alpha Giulia, I was very nervous about the reliability issues. I think they are a piece of art on wheels. What are the 'solvable' electrical issues they have? How solvable are the issues that arise? I really like your warts and all reviews by the way. More power to you.
With you Jim, M3Touring current model, x-drive. By the way guys, still have a genuine 51,000 km CRZ only second owner available for your channel. South coast NSW. Red, leather seats, glass roof and a wonderful drive. Cheers.
Very late to this one...! 😬 Jim is correct about the Macan drivetrain 14:30 being different to it's Swabian cousin, the Q5. Porsche wanted not just market distinction, but better balance than was offered by the existing transverse engine position. So, like the Cayenne, the Macan has longitudinal engine and gearbox layout (but Macans have DCT, big brother just a slushbox). P.S. Grenadier - _SUV?_
The car that I fell in love with in 1991 as a senior in college was the 1992 Ferrari Testarossa. Decades later, like a long lost love, it's still a love affair with that car with it's gorgeous Pininfarina sculpture ❤.
I was never a SAAB guy, my wife bought a 02 9-3 convertible 10 years ago. Despite being over 20 years old and a new Mazda I'm finding it hard to part with it.
@@izzy031096 I’ve been thinking long and hard about buying one. I’d replace the front bar with one from the following E63 though. REDRIVEN…do a review please.🙏
Hey guys, you just got yourselves a new subscriber - from Europe, however... Skoda - It's Škoda. They're originally from the Czech Republic, czech belongs to the slavic language families. When you see that litte mark above the S (I believe they're clled diacritics) it's pronounced SHkoda. Sorry for this :D
List is very lacking in Audi options. A B7 RS4 Avant ticks all your boxes - great looking wagon, manual, very well put together, my 7 year ownership has proven that even with a high number of km the drivetrain is reliable and not a huge financial strain. The epitome of a ‘Sleeper’ - a 1st Gen R8 with practicality - basically the same 4.2L V8, with a better note due to a longer exhaust. Plus if Jeremy Clarkson rates them, then that’s a pretty decent guide.
300E is such an intersting car. Btw from the hundreds of hours i wasted over past 20 years learning about models including MB's, the W140 is entirely impractical to own, along with its SL cousin. I'd love to hear otherwise though, so if anyone has positive info on it/them, i'm all ears.
I owned a British /European car bought brand new a 2004 Ford Fiesta biggest pile if junk we ever bought and l will buy another European car ever and obviously the best cars on this list are the Lotuses with there Toyota engines and also the older BMWs and Mercedes Benzes especially the W123 300TD extremely reliable
YES THE F31 BMW IS A GREAT CAR , BUT!!!!!! IN EUROPE WE GET THE N57 335D !!! MY CAR IS A 2016 F31 335D , WITH THE REMAP I GET 386 BHP AND 760 TORQUE ! look it up ! it's the best family estate car ever made !
A way of putting the argument of European car ownership to rest is if you have mechanical knowledge and are handy with a spanner and take care of your car they are reliable and more enjoyable to drive. If you are a car stooge and neglect your car steer clear
Yeah, it comes down to what sort of experience you want. People who are into horses are well aware that they're an expensive, high-maintenance, temperamental and impractical means of transport, but that's also missing the core appeal, which is why they wanted one (or more... probably more) in the first place.
Basically yes, though I'd say you only need to be a "sympathetic" owner who is quite fastidious about maintenance/servicing and who has access to a trustworthy "expert" independent workshop that specialises in your particular Euro. I'm handyish with the spanners, and have owned Alfas for 15 years, and while I've done lots of stuff myself like fixing/replacing instruments, gauges, switches, electrical motors, body and interior parts, most mechanical work I've left to my usual Alfa expert (small family shop owned by an old Italian mechanic for 40 odd years...) And I get my cars (including the wife's Subarus) serviced every 6 months. The annual spend typically depends on the age of the car, though I'd add all the cars built before the mid-noughties tend to be the only ones you can realistically expect to keep on the road past 200,000km - anything newer than that and you're asking for it if you try and keep the faith beyond that point.
@@johnphaceas7434 Alfa fan I had a fiat 124 as my first car and learnt quickly how to fix a car once it was done was fine apart from a couple of uncanny problems caused by corrosion easily maintained. With all the advice and sourcing of spares now online any car can be kept going and reliable even easier nowadays. A car too modern that ends up with a major mechanical failure is not cost effective to repair unfortunately and having to access a diagnostic tool to recode electrical parts is a hassle.
@wyatthurts1729 yep one of my alfas is a 43yo GTV which you can pretty much fix with a spoon, so I do the regular servicing at home myself along with any mechanical repairs not requiring removal of the engine.
@@johnphaceas7434GTV is a great car bit of a notchy gear change with the linkage to rear mounted gearbox wish I had bought a GT veloce when I had the chance fetch big money now
Glad to hear you guys nominated the OG M2 and M2 competition, what a machine, the N55 powered one sounds so goood. The G87 can look OK with some tasteful front grille mods (not cheap, but why didn't BMW do so?), but it's way too heavy for its size, totally different car vs. the OG. The F20 LCI M135i & M140i are also good choices, only if there are factory manual with LSD. Nice work guys, love ya🎉
M340i XDrive, needs more love! Starting to some decent 2020 examples with 25-40 thou on them for around the 70-80k AUD mark. Performance to price these are hard to beat.
28:50 I was lucky enough to have been taken for a ride as a passenger in a red RHD Aus delivered 1990 Testarossa a few years back and it was bloody insane. You can’t see the bonnet inside the car and on the freeway it’s like sitting in a go kart.
Great video, I totally agree with what you are saying. I would love to see you do a video on proximity keys and what you have to do to make your car secure. I know there are a lot of other videos out there, but I would love to see your opinion on this as you blokes know what you are talking about.
Cayenne is definately a great choice if you prefer sporty SUV driving. particularly if you can pick up one with solid history and get a 3 year factory Porsche warranty - safe bet
After two AMGs, I bought a Giulia Quadrifoglio. Lets just say that my experience has been the polar opposite of the common (mis)conception... The only thing I can see replacing it is another one...
I would be interested in Jim interviewing a few different mechanics from different shops to see if they agree with reliability factor of euro vs Japanese. I had an independent European mechanic do a pre purchase inspection on a Camry and was adamant that the Volkswagen golf was the most reliable. reckoned that his VW had done 600k on the original turbo etc. Would be interesting to get a few professional opinions but not egos in the mix.
Really enjoyed this episode thanks guys, its always enjoyable reminiscing over cool cars. My money no object "supercar" not that it really is these days would be a Ferrari 288 gto.
Funny how all of your reviews focus on reliability and cost of repairs but in this video you have selected cars with some excitement. Kind of like do as I say not as I do. What about a German built diesel SQ5?
The W140 surely is a fine car - but it does have quite some electronics on board - even worse, electronics that were considered pioneering in its day. I'd rather go for a well kept W126 instead.
I have to ask where is the workshop located? The demographic profile of the catchment area of the workshop can skew the number of European cars that come into the shop.
I remember looking at 550 Maranellos around 07 or 08 in the GFC - in the UK they were selling for £35k which at the time was the equivalent of A$50k with the AUD riding high at the time.
Just gone from a BMW M5 to a Porsche cayenne s 4.5L 06 with 180k on air(no sunroof) for less than 10g had another 5g(didn't need it) put aside for any fixes, did everything you have mentioned on repairs (centre bearing,rear hatch springs etc), for $11500 driving, don't even spill my coffee 4wding😂 best driving SUV/sports car
if you ask Damon and Dave from DDE, they would say if they could only have one supercar each out of all the supercars money no object, Damon says the Murcielago that he just put a GT1 body kit on, and Dave says his Squadra Corse Gallardo one of 50 world wide.
You guys are honestly the best in reviewing cars.
Not everyone buys a brand new car, so making an informed used decition is so key!
Yeah but paying over a hundred grand for a used daily is insanity. Lately their picks are just totally out of reach for most. They used to have cool affordable cars on the channel for review.
@@DEVILTAZ35 I agree on this. Also, i’m a bit shocked about the german car selection. I understand VW, but BMW?
@@DainHunter Unlike in Europe, VW really isn't all that good in Australia. BMW is so much better than VW.
@@zanelancaster2007 i dont like BMW’s plastic parts in the engine compartment, but that’s basically all german cars for you
@@DainHunter The plastic parts they use are crap
I don't often congratulate myself with RUclips channels that talk about cars but I gotta make an exception here. You guys are a rare case of a RUclips channel consisting of people that actually KNOW about cars. You don't make any assumption according to the brand, you actually objectively evaluate every single model. What you said about the Giulia and the Abarth in this video, for example, proves it.
Mate thank you so so much. Comments like these genuinely mean the world. Cheers!
This video is going to be a great way to kill 30 seconds
😂
Great acting yes
Just want to say Redriven is may be the best cars channel on RUclips, the best mix between carwow (because Adam is really cool or cooler than mat Watson), throttle house, because the cars reviewed are really nice and interesting, and MCM because of « whats goes wrong » and really good mechanic advice from Jim. Massive thumbs up for you guys, you deserve millions more subscribers 👍🏼
One of the best comments we’ve ever received. Thanks so much for the kind words mate!
You forgot JayEmm on cars
Confirmo
Won't be long before you have millions.
“How much safety and technology do you need in a W140?”
Lady Diana’s chauffeur says, “Hold my beer”
You had me at E39 540. 😁
I’ve owned 3 of them over the years. Also owned a Hellrot Red E39 M5 for 4 years without a single issue. I’m bloody 62 now and am heading towards a Lexus LS430/460 but damnit I’m not there yet. 😂 Hopefully I’ve got an A6 Allroad and a RS4 Avant left in me before I go full pensioner. 😳🙄
I must admit that I was an early sceptic of your channel but now really enjoy it.
However could I suggest the following:
Please spend less time pushing and prodding the interior cubby holes like you’ve got ADD and more time talking to us about the vehicle while you’re actually driving it.
We don’t live in ’Oshtralia’. 😂
Keep up the great work guys. Love the tech/mech advice. You’ve seriously stopped me making some really bad decisions. Really enjoyed this video. Thanks for all your efforts guys.
Hellrot red m5? Have you ever bumped into another one in that colour? Has to be pretty rare in Australia.
Loved my e39 540i was very reliable pcv valve and serpentine belt in 4 yrs.Fast too. The traction control? Saved me and put me back on line in a wet roundabout as if the car took over the steering etc.Amazing for an old car.
Jeepers. That's a heII of a long comment just to say one nitpicky thing.
"I've never had an issue with MY blah blah blah."
You've clearly never actually listened to any of this channel's vids over the years.
Jim brought up a good point, how much car do you really need? Good a/c, quality materials, good phone connectivity and some cup holders that work. Newer cars, especially in the upscale segment, are waaaaay too packed with gizmos that are not at all necessary. It’s like a competition between car brands of who can think up the latest fad or blingy feature. Simple and good quality would be such a welcome change in the car world.
On another channel the tech goes over issues with newer cars. One of the tragic things is the swapping out of physical controls for touch screens. What a disaster. If those screens ever suffer a problem, you can't fix them. $8000 unit replacement cost for new, and only a few thousand less for used. Car makers needs to stop this overly complicated instrumentation and control trend.
Love my radar cruise, such a helpful bit of tech for the long highway drives
YES! The Giulia is in the thumbnail! Proud owner myself of this Italian beauty.
Octy RS is cool and all but a Superb wagon with a Golf R engine...my pick for sure
Note on the Tiguan vs Macan - totally different cars underneath. Macan (MLB) shares its platform with the Audi Q5 and has more similarities to the Cayenne/Touareg (MLB Evo) than the Tiguan (MQB), particularly gearbox and engine layout (longitudinal vs transverse). Because the Macan/Q5 is longitudinal it is also not haldex - it is a permanent torsen 4WD system. Tiguan is fundamentally a Golf chassis.
Had an E59 535i. Brilliant car. Easy to see why the E39 still gets so much love.
I'm a bloody Volvo driver. The 20 yo V50 still goes as good as new. So practical. Most reliable. I look after it and it looks after me. It's a wagon and Jim didn't even mention it. 🙁
Bought my first Volvo, an 2014 XC90. Has just over 200,000km now and is in excellent condition. I love this car and it's so much more car for the money here it's not even close. Love it.
My XC70 has almost 500k on the clock and I just love this car, 4C suspension and everything. Got new wheels on her too
@@soat6nn year please? and any parts that were replaced, and/or overall cost to operate, including fuel econ? assuming/hoping u have the 5cyl turbo?
curious if u are in dry climate? These have had a lot of leaks of water ingress. I like them too but was put off by quality issues, so i'd love to know as much from u as possible wrt maintenance, things to look out for, etc?
Daj spokój, mój ma 17 lat i tyle za sobą, że raczej do bezawaryjnych nie należy
I love my E39 535i, owned since 2009. Worth so little now I decided to put it on historic rego and keep it as a weekender alongside a new car. Why give it away for nothing when it’s so lovely to drive. As you say, parts backup is still good too and reliability pretty good for an old banger.
Good on you
My personal choices:
Saloon - Audi RS6 (C6)
Estate - Volkswagen Passat (B6/7/8), BMW E39 5 Series
SUV - Volvo XC90
Pickup - Volkswagen Amarok (Mark I)
Van - Volkswagen Transporter/Citroen Berlingo
Cabriolet/Coupe - Audi Cabriolet/Coupe
The Audi RS6 Avant finally made it to USA shores. What a beauty. It's just so tragically expensive new. I'm waiting a few years for a well cared for used one!
@@cytherians I agree, the RS6 Avant is a gorgeous car. I should've put it in the Estate section.
My dad had a Fiat 500…. Had to spend $10k on it to be able to sell it but then only got $13k after it being advertised for many months.
And the seating position and jerky semi-auto transmission - two of the most horrible things I’ve ever experienced in a car!
Best European car to buy is a Suzuki Swift Sport with a Quaife limited slip differential installed, as Quaife are an English manufacturer, that qualifies in my book.
Hamatsu Japan, enhanced with a special sauce from Kent UK.
Surprised no RS model Renault's got mentioned!
Recently sold my 2002 BMW 530i. It was hard to part ways with and it was way ahead of its time! Solid and fun car to drive!
I always said I'd stay away from BMWs due to maintenance cost but ended up buying a BMW I3, don't have to be concerned about the engine at least.
Great video! As a European I appreciate you going the extra mile. To bad no Volvo's were in there tho :( Volvo V60 crosscountry looks great and feels great to me.
Volvo before Geely and Ford were great vehicles
Excellent choice on the Octavia BRS here in the UK estate/wagon, excellent
Cant believe not one diesel car has been included. Please do one video for diesel lovers
the diesel alfa romeos are fantastic. new model 2.2 diesels are good engines and the older 159s have a real nice 2.4 5 cylinder diesel - i have one and man is it a great all rounder and not all that bad to maintain for the car you get with it
@@alexballantine3973 Tnx - What about the parts? What's the availability like?
@ pretty decent! the main thing is avidly avoiding the dealership and using reputable parts distributors. I use spareto (based in estonia) and get parts shipped to NZ if i need to. but it’s not too bad
I hear ya on the e39. I’ve had one for over 10 years now and the parts availability and public knowledge on maintenance and repairs is excellent. Mine with the m54 has over 420 000km on it with the original transmission.
23:06 I bought a finale edition M140i last year cause I believe it will be a future classic being rwd and having a turbo 6, have driven it like it should be driven and had no issues at all. Only had 42 thousand k's on it and was $53k.
@@Sharkster32 great car! Done a few track days in mine. Hit 100thousand ks and it runs like a gem. Not missed a beat.
Yea totally agree on the Octi wagon. Love mine to bits! Surprised there was no VW Golf in there tbh, it’s such a staple diet in Euro circles. Great vid as always guys! 👍
I've got a fast F31 in Sydney if you want to review it. Alpina D3 Biturbo. My personal import from the UK. It was the fastest production diesel when it was released 👀
I hope they see this and feature it!
How was the import process mate, was seriously considering importing an m340i wagon
@@brockrose8062 it was a personal import. Quite easy, you need to have owned it for 12months or more over there. Used a company called Iron Lady Imports. Great to deal with
Got an Escape (2L turbo AWD) for my dear old mum and it has been an absolute winner for her for the past 4 years. Massively underrated. Properly good to drive and a lot quicker than you'd ever guess by looking at it!
engine? year?
@@18_rabbit 2018, 2L turbo petrol
I really would like to commend you guys for enlightening some of us who are not that much conversant with motor vehicles! Thank you and keep up the good job of thoroughly analysing the general problems of these cars for us👍
I had a 2016 Ford Kuga (Escape) Trend with 2 ltr turbo AWD. Was a great car. Good handling and ride. Quick off the line. Recently traded in as the transmission was starting to fail, apparently a common problem. Now have a Subaru Outback XT Touring. Might be calling in for a service soon , Jim.
They make a video about reliable European cars and leave out reliable cars and put cars that are real money pits. I saw no mention of the 1.9 TDI engine from the VAG group, I see no mention of the Clio RS (versions without turbo), are some examples.
Love you guys, just the best car nuts on the web. I am lucky to own two of your favourite vehicles a 2009 MX5 NC2 Touring soft top and a 2000 E39 525i (owned since 2002). Whilst the 525 is not the sportiest engine in the E39, even at 250,000kms it still spins to the redline without fuss or vibration, is economical and with Bilstein shocks and sports coils will out handle most new vehicles. The steering the chassis response is without peer and simply brilliant for a 25 yo vehicle and early to see why this is THE best chassis and beautiful looking BMW has ever produced. It is relatively economical and since sorting out early electrical gremlins it has been a very reliable daily drive. Keep up the great work.
The GR Yaris and GR Corolla have a lot of issues that Toyota won’t acknowledge. Plenty videos of them self combusting
Do you mean even their hybrid versions are self combusting?
You guys are the equivalent of down to earth Afrikaans guys here in South Africa. Straightforward, honest and real. Even with Adam's pretentious coffees 😂. There's nothing wrong with being a wanker. The best used vehicles channel. I bought my Lexus RX because of this channel, despite being a dyed in the wool BMW fan.
BMW, Bring My Wallet.
Lekker man pal, alles loop reg altyd reg Lexus
In Europe you can get the VW Up with an ASG automatic, which is a manual transmission but with a robot controlling the clutch. It’s very slow at changing gears.
I’m on my second Audi, my A4 B8 2.0 TDI Quattro is almost 10 years old. 75000km and it’s awesome, looks great and with an RSNAV upgrade (which I did myself) it’s great. I still get comments when people see it. I’m 2 for 2 on Audis, but always serviced at every interval at the dealer and from my perspective it has paid for itself to do this.
The Alfa is soooo gorgeous though.
Is it a DSG or Multitronic ?
@@mjngp DSG
@@mjngp DSG
@@mjngp I’ve responded twice (this being the third time) but if I only respond as DSG the comment is removed. It’s a DSG.
@@blackvulcan3 the algo's/AI is so not cool now! Great to know u like your A4. I'm a yank so we only have petrol engines very unfortunately, given that the E888 petrols are really the only truely horrible engines per durability that Vag ever made. Sad times here.
As a tow truck driver, the BMW problem we often strike is, will it go into neutral?
The vehicles with that shifter usually won't if the motor doesn't run. So then you're skull dragging it onto the truck and shaking it off. There's a release under the car but you need to pull off a panel and wind it up with a torx bit or similar. Is this going to be same with the Ineos when it inevitably won't start?
I've asked a few people, but so far nobody knows.
I'd assume you can just chuck the transfer case lever in neutral and it'll roll. But has it got neutral?
Most of the picks that you guys chose aren't really surprising if you watch the reviews regularly lol 😂.
If money was no problem the European cars I'd look at are the Lancia Stratos and Lancia Delta Integrale Evolutione 1 or 2.
Hopefully after the Euro cars to avoid you'll do Asians cars to consider and avoid as there are quite a few from people I've spoken to that are avoid at all cost Asian cars.
Hope Hullsy had a good father's day and all the teams dads had a good one as well.
Great job as always guys and as always keep up the good work and look forward to next week's videos as per usual 👍.
Everyone is sleeping on the BMW M140i, petrol turbo, 6cyl (B58) RWD, 5 door hatch with 350hp and a 50/50 weight balance. Can’t find a better all-rounders
Any 3 series is better all-rounder lol
Absolutely - such a fine car. Does everything well and not a giant tractor. Plenty of space, quick and nimble, unassuming.
@@ivanjovanovic362 yeah, nah. Only the 6cyl 3 series are worth a look. The 4cyl are trash.
@@ivanjovanovic362If one is going for the 340i , it is really close to 5 series price especially when buying used and something like a 540i offers better suspension and much more imho
Yes I love mine. They are even better with xDrive or a LSD for Traction.
Adam back in 2017 I bought a Skoda Superb Sportline 206kw 4WD wagon. The ONLY other car I considered was the Octavia RS wagon. I just liked the all paw control, the carrying capacity, the limo comfort & the 206kw engine on tap. Still got it, I keep all the services up to date & have no intentions of getting rid of it… Unless someone throws me a few hundred grand for the Audi RS6!🥰🤤🤣
Yep. Great pick. I'd go the AWD Superb wagon too. Absolutely love them. The Arteon Shooting Brake is also a magical looking thing.
@@blacktoothstavros2606I've gone a little bigger - Kodiaq. Also a great car!
Changed my perception on cars completely.(In a good way)...🙏🏾🙏🏾
Learning something valuable in every video❤️
I would also say the W212 Mercedes E-class are very solid cars, with great physical and interior reliability. They're used as taxis in Europe and many cars have colossal mileages, but still look very good. Getting a later model car with a diesel engine will serve you very well!
Good job Adam for calling out Ford Escape. Especially the current gen is criminally underrated (‘invisible’ is perhaps a better descriptor) in Australia. Packed with features, safety and tech, dynamically one of the best medium SUVs there is, and such a sleeper - the 2.0l turbo is standard fitment and has better performance than the entry level Porsche Macan. It’s bananas and it’s insane not more people who actually enjoy driving caught on to this.
Not sure I agree with this one. A friend of mine has one, and even though it's low kms (something around 60,000km) it suffered a head gasket failure that cost him thousands to get sorted. When he researched it, he found out it's very common and in the US there's currently a class action against Ford for it. The head gaskets are apparently an inferior quality part that just isn't up to the task
Never fear! We are out there! I bought a 2.0 turbo Escape, largely in part because of your video. It's a quick thing, but now I'm just saving up the $$$ to get a cheeky tune to make it a weapon.
Big vote for the Escape. I have the 2012 Kuga with the AWD T5 Volvo donk, I got it remapped and it is a weapon.
As an owner of a post-facelift bimmer 320d with the 8-speed ZF auto, it's an amazing car. Everything I'd ever need and it's genuenly fast, 190hp, 8.0s to 100kph is no joke.
I think an underrated Euro hatch is the original mk4 R32.
Super reliable vr6 without the crap dsg transmission. Awd and made to a high standard
I can still remember in the 1970s in Malaysia when Japanese cars were cheap and nasty. There was a famous saying here that they were made of "Milo" tin. I remember pushing in the side panels of a new Datsun 120Y, and it just flexed in. And it really gave the feeling of floating when driven, and being so light and soft. Malaysians who bought Japanese cars then were considered fools and gambling with their lives. Everyone considered European cars as the best cars around, especially Mercedes Benzes. And they had a point. Those Mercedes Benzes which were made up to the 1990s, prior to the Chrysler tie-up were over-engineered and reliable to a fault. You never, ever, saw a Mercedes Benz breakdown on the emergency lane on the highway. If you did see one, it probably had been involved in an accident, and the other car usually came of the worst! Yet, within a decade or so, Japanese cars had become reliable and sophisticated, putting the sword to European and American cars. Today, only certain British and European brands have survived but many European and British brands are now held by Chinese companies. Korean cars followed the same pattern in 1990s, and Chinese cars in the 2010s. Just the normal cycle of developing countries becoming developed as their products leaves the cheap and nasty cycle, to becoming expensive and reliable.
Oh, and a reliable Alfa Romeo is not a Alfa Romeo :)
Oh my god! I worked at a US Benz dealer through the late 1980s. “Reliable to a fault” is total complete BS, take that from the guy that worked on them every freaking day and drove the Benz roadside assistance service Wagon on the weekends after fixing all the defects( warranty work out the ass endlessly)liked the way they drove handled went through puddles early safety features. But “reliability never breaks” total myth.
The early diesels 60s, 70s were pretty tank like and reasonably reliable in a warm climate and ok in countries where acceleration not a issue ( remember the D stands for dog) good to have dirt roads though because after about 50k the engines are wet wet wet with oil pouring out the main crank seals. Also had many defective brake master cylinder s in mid 70s, some strange hidden rust issues too since 120y rust buckets ( US DATSUN B210) were mentioned. In the 80s the new 124 bodies ( and several other all new bodies 126 - s class the little 190s 220 something body lots of new engines came out)300E came out and were chalk full of issues( in US some parts shared world wide many parts sourced in China from then on) defects: front suspension vibration needed redesign part, AC/ climate control needed all new warranty replacement enhancement, valve guides no good,piston slap,numerous tran problems, sunroof, power window regulators all total crap,and on and on more than my aging brain can recall;and the notorious 300e “ car just quits, cranks won’t start, that went on for years( numerous defects in wires in wiring harness) have fun with a used one some of those defects still out there unresolved there on “ survivors”
I will empathize however BENZes were a joy to drive, the soaked up the bumps and were not thrown off by deep water even at high speed or bumps in a turn at high speed. They had a tight turning radius and were delightfully light in steering yet still precise and reacted well. Very toss able as we say. So yes maybe I was overly harsh on the good old BENZes from way way back. Although I would stay away from all the old gas cars even from the 60s and 70s. And good god don’t buy an old old automatic adjustable suspension Benz from the 70s.
@@Horatio1886build Thanks for your thoughts. I must say that it is interesting how the Benzes in the US fared compared with those in Malaysia. I don't what was the difference, but the reputation of Benzes here in Malaysia was built on that reliability heritage. It used to be until recently, any successful businessman or professional would automatically buy a Benz. Later on, the younger generation would go more for BMWs. However, it used to be until the 1990s, that if you had a Benz, it would be like announcing to everyone you had arrived. You cannot imagine how widespread the ownership of Benz in Malaysia was like. A mechanic in the most out of the way area would always have Benz spare parts on hand because it was a surefire bet that any body with any money in his area would own a Benz. It was not a joke when we used to say that if you have to have a breakdown with any car, make sure it is a Benz and you were sure to have a mechanic within walking distance who would have the necessary expertise and spare parts to fix it. Oh, I really dislike modern cars now because there's too many bells and whistles in them. And more to go wrong. It always makes me feel that I need a computer science degree just to operate a modern car. And with the new global safety regulations such as the Australian NCAP, it really bugs me when there are so many warning lights and commands aimed at you from the car. I just end to switch all those off when I drive.
Awsome video. I don't know how many people buying a $30K car are going to put aside $20K to repair it. That and the fact your car is going to be off the road while you wait for it to be fixed.
About the ineos grenadier bmw shifter. I have a theory. They left the shifter as is (bmw) intentionaly, to ensure peace of mind in the buyer. Make in it more apeeling and reinsouring that you can service it at your local bmw shop(mechanic whise).
I feel like the tech that I'd miss (after a tech refresh) on the W140 would be adaptive cruise. Such a deadly feature for the long highway drives, I'm pretty much locked into having it in every car I'll consider from here on in.
Underrated and I hope we see one on the channel is a later model Saab 9-3 I had a 2.0t (bio) 2008 and it was the quirkiest but most comfortable daily I’ve ever owned and looks very nice for a fun daily for under 10k. And I found with good service history they’re no where near as unreliable as people may think.
Volkswagen Up! Owner of going on 5 years here... It is such a fun little car to get about in. 1.0 3 cyl 5 spd manual and zippy for what it is. It turns more heads than my 180sx or Harley Davidson ever did. and getting 600kms out of a 35 litre tank in todays fuel prices climate is an absolute winner! I work 10 minutes up the road and I refuel it once a month including a few trips abit further to the shops or cinemas.
I always wished they released the GTI here as having a little snail on one would be a hell of alot of fun.
Same would have considered buying an UP GTI, if they were available here.
Closest is the Kia Picanto GT 1.0T with a tuning box from bluesparkautomotive
Otherwise next alternative is the polo gti 6c with 1.8T manual if it has to be VW
I love the look of the Alpha Giulia, I was very nervous about the reliability issues. I think they are a piece of art on wheels. What are the 'solvable' electrical issues they have? How solvable are the issues that arise? I really like your warts and all reviews by the way. More power to you.
With you Jim, M3Touring current model, x-drive. By the way guys, still have a genuine 51,000 km CRZ only second owner available for your channel. South coast NSW. Red, leather seats, glass roof and a wonderful drive. Cheers.
Very late to this one...! 😬 Jim is correct about the Macan drivetrain 14:30 being different to it's Swabian cousin, the Q5.
Porsche wanted not just market distinction, but better balance than was offered by the existing transverse engine position. So, like the Cayenne, the Macan has longitudinal engine and gearbox layout (but Macans have DCT, big brother just a slushbox).
P.S. Grenadier - _SUV?_
For me it would the Alpina A110 in British racing green with a tan interior.
I absolutely love my Octavia RS245 wagon, it’s a GTI undercover and handles fantastically . Dont Knock one till you've driven it.
W140s are great, but need a coil over for the suspension which will undoubtedly cause very expensive repair bills
Great video as usual guys....but now I'm curious about your backpack picks as well :D
Here in the USofA a used one of those particular Alfa Guilia's is a mere $14K now
With good reason, garbage unreliable heap of crap
I ended up buying the very BMW M2 Adam reviewed. It's by far the best sports car I've owned for the money, dare I say, my forever car.
The car that I fell in love with in 1991 as a senior in college was the 1992 Ferrari Testarossa. Decades later, like a long lost love, it's still a love affair with that car with it's gorgeous Pininfarina sculpture ❤.
I was never a SAAB guy, my wife bought a 02 9-3 convertible 10 years ago. Despite being over 20 years old and a new Mazda I'm finding it hard to part with it.
2003-2006 E55 AMG. That 5.5ltr Supercharged V8 🤩
M113K is a brilliant and simple motor that makes plenty of power reliably
@@izzy031096 I’ve been thinking long and hard about buying one. I’d replace the front bar with one from the following E63 though.
REDRIVEN…do a review please.🙏
Hey guys, you just got yourselves a new subscriber - from Europe, however... Skoda - It's Škoda. They're originally from the Czech Republic, czech belongs to the slavic language families. When you see that litte mark above the S (I believe they're clled diacritics) it's pronounced SHkoda. Sorry for this :D
When I bought the 2nd hand 2014 Ford Mondeo TDCi wagon, the mechanic shook her head and said "why did you buy the European car..."
List is very lacking in Audi options. A B7 RS4 Avant ticks all your boxes - great looking wagon, manual, very well put together, my 7 year ownership has proven that even with a high number of km the drivetrain is reliable and not a huge financial strain. The epitome of a ‘Sleeper’ - a 1st Gen R8 with practicality - basically the same 4.2L V8, with a better note due to a longer exhaust. Plus if Jeremy Clarkson rates them, then that’s a pretty decent guide.
Sometimes I squint when I’m trucking along in my ‘89 340k 300E and imagine I’m driving one of those big mother W140 500’s
Hahaha me in my 87 190e doing the same thing to you 300e drivers 😂
300E is such an intersting car. Btw from the hundreds of hours i wasted over past 20 years learning about models including MB's, the W140 is entirely impractical to own, along with its SL cousin. I'd love to hear otherwise though, so if anyone has positive info on it/them, i'm all ears.
I owned a British /European car bought brand new a 2004 Ford Fiesta biggest pile if junk we ever bought and l will buy another European car ever and obviously the best cars on this list are the Lotuses with there Toyota engines and also the older BMWs and Mercedes Benzes especially the W123 300TD extremely reliable
YES THE F31 BMW IS A GREAT CAR , BUT!!!!!! IN EUROPE WE GET THE N57 335D !!! MY CAR IS A 2016 F31 335D , WITH THE REMAP I GET 386 BHP AND 760 TORQUE ! look it up ! it's the best family estate car ever made !
A way of putting the argument of European car ownership to rest is if you have mechanical knowledge and are handy with a spanner and take care of your car they are reliable and more enjoyable to drive. If you are a car stooge and neglect your car steer clear
Yeah, it comes down to what sort of experience you want. People who are into horses are well aware that they're an expensive, high-maintenance, temperamental and impractical means of transport, but that's also missing the core appeal, which is why they wanted one (or more... probably more) in the first place.
Basically yes, though I'd say you only need to be a "sympathetic" owner who is quite fastidious about maintenance/servicing and who has access to a trustworthy "expert" independent workshop that specialises in your particular Euro. I'm handyish with the spanners, and have owned Alfas for 15 years, and while I've done lots of stuff myself like fixing/replacing instruments, gauges, switches, electrical motors, body and interior parts, most mechanical work I've left to my usual Alfa expert (small family shop owned by an old Italian mechanic for 40 odd years...) And I get my cars (including the wife's Subarus) serviced every 6 months. The annual spend typically depends on the age of the car, though I'd add all the cars built before the mid-noughties tend to be the only ones you can realistically expect to keep on the road past 200,000km - anything newer than that and you're asking for it if you try and keep the faith beyond that point.
@@johnphaceas7434 Alfa fan I had a fiat 124 as my first car and learnt quickly how to fix a car once it was done was fine apart from a couple of uncanny problems caused by corrosion easily maintained. With all the advice and sourcing of spares now online any car can be kept going and reliable even easier nowadays. A car too modern that ends up with a major mechanical failure is not cost effective to repair unfortunately and having to access a diagnostic tool to recode electrical parts is a hassle.
@wyatthurts1729 yep one of my alfas is a 43yo GTV which you can pretty much fix with a spoon, so I do the regular servicing at home myself along with any mechanical repairs not requiring removal of the engine.
@@johnphaceas7434GTV is a great car bit of a notchy gear change with the linkage to rear mounted gearbox wish I had bought a GT veloce when I had the chance fetch big money now
Glad to hear you guys nominated the OG M2 and M2 competition, what a machine, the N55 powered one sounds so goood. The G87 can look OK with some tasteful front grille mods (not cheap, but why didn't BMW do so?), but it's way too heavy for its size, totally different car vs. the OG. The F20 LCI M135i & M140i are also good choices, only if there are factory manual with LSD.
Nice work guys, love ya🎉
M340i XDrive, needs more love! Starting to some decent 2020 examples with 25-40 thou on them for around the 70-80k AUD mark. Performance to price these are hard to beat.
Only euro car I would buy is one that I can fix myself like I live in the us but im currently fixing a 1998 vw jetta tdi back to oem spec.
Jim may see the euro cars in his workshop but I have to fix the bloody thing 😢😢. Love the retropower hoody
Glad the Lotus Exige made this list somehow! I have an Exige and it is utterly amazing
28:50 I was lucky enough to have been taken for a ride as a passenger in a red RHD Aus delivered 1990 Testarossa a few years back and it was bloody insane. You can’t see the bonnet inside the car and on the freeway it’s like sitting in a go kart.
Skoda VRS great cars. Had mine 11+ years over 250,000kms still going.
Great video, I totally agree with what you are saying.
I would love to see you do a video on proximity keys and what you have to do to make your car secure. I know there are a lot of other videos out there, but I would love to see your opinion on this as you blokes know what you are talking about.
Cayenne is definately a great choice if you prefer sporty SUV driving. particularly if you can pick up one with solid history and get a 3 year factory Porsche warranty - safe bet
We hired a Countryman diesel for a few days in QLD, it was a hoot. I was told the petrol engine is the one to avoid, but that may be older models
"Skoda people" saved me £1000 by guiding me to do a DIY job instead of taking mine to the garage. Good people. :)
About to pick up an Octavia RS wagon! This is my 2nd Skoda and I honestly don't know if I could go away from Euro.
Jim should love Euros, they put the food on his dinner table
My sister-in-law has a 2016 Maccan, just told $1000 to fix an oil leak 😬
Will you guys do a review on the MK4 Octavia RS anytime soon? I know you've already done a review on the earlier model
After two AMGs, I bought a Giulia Quadrifoglio.
Lets just say that my experience has been the polar opposite of the common (mis)conception...
The only thing I can see replacing it is another one...
I would be interested in Jim interviewing a few different mechanics from different shops to see if they agree with reliability factor of euro vs Japanese. I had an independent European mechanic do a pre purchase inspection on a Camry and was adamant that the Volkswagen golf was the most reliable. reckoned that his VW had done 600k on the original turbo etc. Would be interesting to get a few professional opinions but not egos in the mix.
Was his golf a 1.9 TDI?
Was his golf a 1.9 TDI?
VW group petrol turbo engine doing 600k? 😂
Really enjoyed this episode thanks guys, its always enjoyable reminiscing over cool cars. My money no object "supercar" not that it really is these days would be a Ferrari 288 gto.
Funny how all of your reviews focus on reliability and cost of repairs but in this video you have selected cars with some excitement. Kind of like do as I say not as I do. What about a German built diesel SQ5?
I have heard good about this car that can go forever
@@olympbarca3313 yeah in fantasy-land it can just go and go!
@@18_rabbit why not ? Literally is one of the most reliable Audi models
The W140 surely is a fine car - but it does have quite some electronics on board - even worse, electronics that were considered pioneering in its day.
I'd rather go for a well kept W126 instead.
I have to ask where is the workshop located? The demographic profile of the catchment area of the workshop can skew the number of European cars that come into the shop.
I remember looking at 550 Maranellos around 07 or 08 in the GFC - in the UK they were selling for £35k which at the time was the equivalent of A$50k with the AUD riding high at the time.
Talking buying Euro.
Glad the channel is doing so well.
😊
I rarely see euros come into the shop early or on time for a service…drives me crazy.
That was great! Really enjoyed that!
Could we have best cars over 30 years old at some point?
Just gone from a BMW M5 to a Porsche cayenne s 4.5L 06 with 180k on air(no sunroof) for less than 10g had another 5g(didn't need it) put aside for any fixes, did everything you have mentioned on repairs (centre bearing,rear hatch springs etc), for $11500 driving, don't even spill my coffee 4wding😂 best driving SUV/sports car
if you ask Damon and Dave from DDE, they would say if they could only have one supercar each out of all the supercars money no object, Damon says the Murcielago that he just put a GT1 body kit on, and Dave says his Squadra Corse Gallardo one of 50 world wide.
You are damn right Skodas are cool! Especially when they have two car seats in the back and a cargo pod on the top!
the money no object in the Porsche brand is the new S/T and the new 992.2 GT3 Touring