Bristol alternatives.

[Jervaulx]

Markus, i live in Manchester in England and the Mercedes S-class, as well
as other models is a very common car in Manchester. The Jaguar XJ is a
rarer car here as it has a bad image, too much of an old mans car i hear
and lacks sophistication. I do like the S-class though.

Andrew

[Markus Berzborn]

Lacks sophistication?
That's funny. I think the ride in an XJ series X300 is still excellent, concerning the comfort aspect. Certainly better than in an S class up to and including the W126 series.
For me, the Double Six was not planned as an everyday transport but then it turned out that it is so much more fun to drive than the E class (current model) that I use it very often, regardless of the fuel consumption which is twice the E class. Although the comparison is a bit unfair, as it is only the E 220.

By the way, what is the image of Bristol in Britain, i.e. for people who even heared about the marque?

Regards,
Markus

[Jervaulx]

When i say sophistication i mean more about the statement the car makes,
rather than the technological capabilities of the car. Sorry, i should have
been clearer. I can understand the older man view of the car over here, but
i don't agree with the sheep like views to so called style in this country.
Jaguars are fine cars and like any other cars, you buy what you prefer. I
think many of our nation need to take the image views of a car a little less
seriously and just enjoy cars.

Andrew

[RGSchmitt]

Hi all -

My next project is likely to be a Maserati Quattroporte, series
III. Much more common than the Bristol in the US (what isn't?) and
"good value", in some semi-insane sense. I'll need to sell my '66
Imperial LeBaron to make room for it, so if anyone would like a
decent example of the "best" postwar Imperial, see it at
http://teamchicago.com/imperial/ . Full details provided on request,
of course.

Bob

[Stuart]

Interesting that Alfa doesn't seem to have featured in this thread? I
have only recently investigated with a cheapie 155 V6, seems to have
some grunt, handling, comfort and quiet, but maybe be a bit lacking in style?

Stuart

[Markus Berzborn]

Originally Posted by RGSchmitt

My next project is likely to be a Maserati Quattroporte, series III.

That's a nice one and still quite cheap.
I almost bought one two years ago.
I would recommend the (rarer) version with manual transmission, it's much quicker.
Or the Royale, the ultimate luxury Quattroporte (only available with automatic transmission). It even has Daimler/RR-style wooden fold-out tables in the rear.

Gruß,
Markus