Patrician wrote:
1) I don't have a driving license
2) Passing a test is easier in a relatively small car, and not too powerful
3) Relatively small cars are de rigeur in London
Therefore hatchback is best choice for me at this moment in time. I like 3 hatchbacks - Golfs, BMW 1 Series and Audi A3 Sportbacks (5 dr version).
The best Golf is the GTI, but too powerful for a learner imo. I find the rest of the range a bit average in all respects. So a toss-up between the Beamer and the Audi. I happen to prefer the Audi, and the one I bought looks suitably manly (deep black, good alloys), and has a 2.0 litre engine.
When I have a license and enough driving experience, I might consider a Porsche Caymen or 911. For now, I think the examiner might think of me as a complete **** if I rocked up for my test in a Porka.
OK. Taking into account your criteria... Tough call.
Beemer 1 series. Not quite as ghey as an A3, but close.
Golf - acceptable, providing you have a sticker in the back saying "My other car is an A3". You know the throttle pedal isn't a switch doncha? The GTI is maneuverable, economical at low revs, and would be ideal.
If you tell me you went for the manual gearbox in the Sassoon-mobile, you might redeem yourself a tad.
Just an observation that Audi A3's have the "Boyzone's Greatest Hits" CD and a car park pass to G.A.Y. included as standard. You knew that, right?
But gratz on the paywad ya capitalist Brummie sell-out.