There are few things as exotic in the automotive world as a mid-mounted engine configuration. Think Ferrari 458, Lamborghini Diablo, Audi R8… you get the idea. However, you need not spend a six-figure sum in order to experience the unique poise and balance afforded by a mid-engined layout. Indeed, as the cars below prove, there are a handful of offerings out there that can be picked up for the price of a MINI – or less. Which one would you choose?
TOYOTA MR2 Power comes from a 1.8-litre, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine. Admittedly, there’s only 140bhp to play with, but because the MR2 weighs less than 1,000kg it still feels brilliantly responsive, and will get from 0-62mph in less than 8 seconds. Throw in a limited-slip differential, communicative steering and Toyota’s fine reputation for reliability and you have a great first step into mid-engined motoring. TOP TIP: Although all MR2s have the same power output, cars from the 2003 facelift onwards benefit from six gears rather than five. PORSCHE BOXSTER With even the earliest 2.5-litre cars getting 201bhp there’s no such thing as a slow Boxster, plus with the engine’s six cylinders arranged in Porsche’s favoured boxer configuration it still makes all the right noises. For ultimate thrills, however, we’d still be inclined to stretch the budget to a 3.2-litre Boxster S, which has 248bhp and six gears rather than five. Whatever the case do remember that a low purchase price doesn’t also mean low running costs, but if you’re prepared for that then a good Boxster represents perhaps the most tempting low-budget mid-engined motoring of all. TOP TIP: Finding a good independent specialist to maintain your Boxster is highly recommended, as is paying for a pre-purchase inspection to help guard against some well documented and potentially costly engine problems. PORSCHE CAYMAN Admittedly, it’s never quite toppled the 911 for overall appeal, but that also means it’s a more affordable used buy, with prices of early cars now hovering around the £10,000 mark. TOP TIP: For ultimate thrills go for a Cayman S with its larger and more powerful engine, but even entry-level 2.7-litre Caymans are sublime to drive. LOTUS ELISE There are downsides of course, most obvious of which is that you’d need to be truly dedicated to use an Elise as your daily driver. But as a thing to tuck away in the garage, ever ready to blow away the cobwebs, the little Lotus is just the job. As with all these cars, we’d stress the importance of getting a specialist to inspect the car prior to purchase, plus look for a full service record and clean history check as signs it’s been well cared for. TOP TIP: Due to being so light the Elise is generally easy on components, but proper maintenance is still essential, including checking the wheel alignment every couple of years. MGF AND MG TF Launched by the Rover Group in 1995, the MGF was designed to rekindle memories of classic British sports cars such as the MG B, and was thus a rival to the Mazda MX-5. Although it didn’t ultimately have the staying power of its Japanese rival, there are still plenty of used examples to choose from, ranging from the entry-level 1.6 through to the more power 1.8-litre VVC engines. Admittedly the latter offer superior performance, but in reality it’s best to buy on history and condition rather than seeking out a particular model. TOP TIP: Be aware that head gaskets were prone to failure, and the interior was never designed for tall drivers. VAUXHALL VX220 There’s perhaps even an argument to be made that the VX220 is the superior car, both because it uses larger engines (including a seriously rapid 2.0-litre turbo that could get from 0-62mph in less than 5 seconds), and because you get airbags and ABS brakes as standard. It also looks the part, handles every bit as well as its Lotus equivalent, and has a dedicated following. And so, while a Vauxhall might not be the most obvious choice of mid-engined car, it’s certainly worth investigating. TOP TIP: It might be a Vauxhall, but don’t assume that means the VX220 is cheap to repair. Quite the opposite in fact, with a new front or rear clamshell alone coming in at more than £1,000 each. In the market for a used car? CarGurus’ extensive data analysis and dealer reviews make it easy to find a good deal from a top-rated dealer in your area. Find out more, and begin your used car search, at CarGurus. The content above is for informational purposes only and should be independently verified. Please see our Terms of Use for more details. Six Mid-Engined Masterpieces for MINI Money posted first on http://www.cargurus.com/blog/ via Blogger Six Mid-Engined Masterpieces for MINI Money
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April 2018
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