{Prior to locking this thread, it was one of the longest threads in the history of the Backroom (260 replies to date 06 Aug 2006). It has grown so big that I've separated it to make easier loading and reading for people still on dial up)

Volume 2 of this thread can be found HERE
Volume 3 of this thread can be found HERE

DD
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Went for test drive in one of these today.

First impression was that I have never seen a car this size before. Imposing? Astounding more like. The second impression, after I sat in it was that I have never sat in a car this size before. A quick fiddle with the seat and mirror and I was comfortable. Find the handbrake lever and away we went, to a third impression, that I have never driven a car this big before.

Once on the move, though, the size seemed to morph into solidity. I had the feeling that if I hit a bus it would certainly be the bus that came off worse. Handling was fine in general. Unfortunately, it was a model with the silly big wheels, small tyres that seem to be the fashion these days. The choppiness they induced was a bit irritating, but that apart, it was a pleasant drive.

On the motorway and the car was in its element. Breezing along at...70...was effortless and noise free. Onto country roads, and while I wouldn't want to race anyone in it, it was surprisingly easy to drive.

I think that I will have one of these. I'll have the diesel - it's faster and more economical, so why wouldn't I? With a 6 month waiting list, though, I'm not expecting a big discount, so maybe I'll nurse the Omega on for another year or two and get a 300C after they have depreciated a little (or a lot, who can tell?).

I will finish by saying that if you want a rear-wheel limo, you could do a lot worse than to take a look at a 300C. My biggest worry is that at least one professional footballer (if Southampton FC players count) has one. Could I live with that image?

V

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My T reg Vectra 2litre TDi will not start but will turn over. The day before it was running fine. Does this model have a collision/inertia switch?
The car has never played up before and the alarm/immobilizer has been working as it should. There are no MIL warning lights etc showing either.
Any ideas?

Many thanks in advance.

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If it is the dual mass flywheel do i demand them to change the clutch at the same time or just go with the flow??
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