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Title: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on September 15, 2011, 06:22:42 PM I'm just back from a European road trip covering 6022 kms in 3 weeks (at an average fuel consumption of 47.2mpg) - It began in Roscoff (France) spending a week on the Dordoigne, a week in Cipressa (North East Italy), a couple of days in San Marino for the Monster Scambio (Autojumble) followed by a leisurely return drive over the Stelvio Pass (almost 3kms UP the Alps) emerging into Switzerland and later Paris and Cherbourg to catch a rough ferry crossing to Ireland suffering the last sputterings of Hurricane Katriona. :)
Plenty to share in relation to 131s, classic Fiats, buying spares (and model cars) and fantastic roads for possible future 3MAs... :) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011205.jpg) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on September 15, 2011, 06:27:26 PM There wasn't much to see of an Italian flavour in France but as soon as we crossed the border my eyes were peeled for anything classic & Fiat. On our first Monday in Italy we decided to go to Turin to visit City Motors. I knew they had a low mileage 132 for sale and I wanted to see it in the metal. We decided to take the scenic route on the outward leg which meant heading over the mountains to Cuneo. Just 10 kms from the coast we chanced upon this 131 obviously still in use. Badly affected by sunshine but quite rust free.
(http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011248.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011247.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011246.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011245.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011244.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011243.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011242.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011241.jpg)ght=600]http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011240.jpg[/img] Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on September 15, 2011, 06:35:24 PM Here is a sample of some the roads on the drive north to Cuneo...
(http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011278.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011270.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011263.jpg) If there is one thing that you have to credit the Italians with it is their vision and design capability to construct roads and even high speed AutoStrada in the most challenging terrain. On a stretch of Autostrada measuring 100kms in length it is not uncommon to encounter 50 short tunnels (carved into solid rock) each one followed by a viaduct built on concrete columns 100s of metres tall. More to follow.... Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: mirafioriman on September 15, 2011, 06:42:39 PM Lovely scenary. Makes me wish I was there!
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: stathe174 on September 15, 2011, 08:51:16 PM Very nice scenary!
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Rob 131 on September 16, 2011, 06:52:44 AM You have certainly covered some distance (however you ahve the right car for it in a 520D). What did you think of the Dordogne. This is one of our favourite parts of France (3rd Visit with the Children). This was the final leg of our holiday between the 26th August and the 5th September.
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on September 16, 2011, 04:56:07 PM Hi Rob - We stayed near Sarlat and Belves - Lovely country - very serene and the medieval towns are perfect to spend a leisurely afternoon sipping beers & watching the world go by. The rural way of life in France is very appealing - The only drawback is that they seem to have thrown away most of their old Fiats. :)
The following pics are of the Fiat 132 2000 in City Motors, Torino. This has been for sale at ?7000 for over 2 years. It has driven only 16,000 kms which looks genuine. However some idiot has at some time driven the car off road and the complete underside is covered in what looks like dried cement although it could be "caked on" mud. The floor pan looks like it needs some welding and overall the paintwork is quite dull. In my view the car is worth buying but at a price of approx ?2000/?2500. (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011285.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011288.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011290.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011299.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011303.jpg) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Rob 131 on September 16, 2011, 05:36:07 PM Hi Kev
We stayed at a 5 Star Rated Campsite in a Mobile Home Near Sarlat in a place called St. Nathlene (3rd Time). I can really recommend this place and it is mainly Irish and Brits (don't froget this is Dordogneshire) with decent pools, restaurants and great walks around the area. Never has been many Italian Treats in France (except this year, details and photos to follow). However I didn't see any in Italy last year >:(. Did you go to the car model shop in Sarlat ;D. My wife and I did on seperate occassions ( ::) ::) on the same day). Hence, I now have an Abarth Model like Simons and an Orange Abarth sat on the dresser. That's one benefit of seperate shopping. Still lots of old French cars in France. To kill time in the car; my children have to spot certain cars and get paid accordingly, based on a price list; i.e a Mirafiori is Euro 50, Peugeot 604 Euro 30, 605 Euro 5, Fuego 15 etc. Keeps them amused for hours and pays for all the ice cream ;D ;D Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: mirafioriman on September 16, 2011, 05:38:50 PM Looks like a decent car but I wouldn't pay 7000 euro for a car that needed welded.
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on September 18, 2011, 11:21:00 AM Here's another update with a motoring flavour. We were staying approx 70kms from Monaco so we had to pop by and see the sights....especially the roads and corners made famous by the Grand prix. It's always an eye opener to actually visit a race track only previously seen on TV - Your perspective totally changes.
This is the view of the Principality shortly after leaving the Autoroute. It certainly looks like a billionaires' playground from here.... (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011343.jpg) This shot is the tunnel exit which is a two way road in normal use. (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011359.jpg) This is the famous Loews hairpin - The slowest and some say the most famous corner in F1. (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011366.jpg) This is just after Casino Square and the bump in the road ruins what is otherwise a perfectly viable overtaking spot - It always annoys me to see cars swerve to avoid it thereby compromising the car behind. I wanted to see how significant it was and how difficult it would be to remove it... :) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011373.jpg) Of course the cars were awesome and nothing but the best would do...although I did spot a Series 2 Ritmo parked on a side street. ;D This Roller was probably the most ostentatious car I saw... :D (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011376.jpg) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: jasonh131 on September 18, 2011, 11:41:52 AM You lucky bugger :D :D All i got was return trip to north devon :-\
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on September 18, 2011, 12:47:29 PM Back to 131s, we did pass an oncoming white series 2 Panorama that looked very clean and in regular use but I couldn't get my camera out in time. We also found this one parked at the side of the street in Genoa. The earliest and cheapest 131 version and intriguing to see one still being maintained despite it's low budget status. I had noticed a shortage of filler in the car accessory shops and after seeing this I now know why... ;D Definiely not one for Heini's growing collection...!! Or as a donor for an "Enzo special"!! ;)
(http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011420.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011421.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011422.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011419.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011418.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011427.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011424.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011423.jpg) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Heini131 on September 18, 2011, 02:03:32 PM Hi Kev,
sure this one isn`t a concourse winner but i love these cars because they are still in regular use ;) After 35 years they still do what they were built for ;D Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on September 20, 2011, 04:39:05 PM Continuing the story (for anyone still reading) the highlight of the trip for me and what dictated our itinerary was Il Mostro Scambio at the old Grand prix circuit in San Marino in the town called Imola. This is an annual Monster Auto Jumble and unlike the equivalents further north, it has a very heavy Italian and Fiat bias. Despite almost 80% of the stands being dedicated to Motos (Motorbikes) the circuit is crammed to capacity with vendors and if you had the time, I'm sure you could either find any part or model you wanted...or at least make the right contacts. This was my third trip and the first time with my own car so I was determined to make the most of it. I had two sessions both in baking 33 degree heat but you didn't mind as every corner revealed a treasure trove. I've tried to capture the feeling of the place with these pics. I added significantly to my model Fiat collection while sourcing a few parts for my 131 and some forum members.
(http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011477.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011499.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011500.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011501.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011502.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011503.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011516.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011517.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011538.jpg) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: mirafioriman on September 20, 2011, 05:36:48 PM Lots of nice wheels :D
Don't suppose there were any series 2 Argenta wheel trims? Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Heini131 on September 20, 2011, 07:12:03 PM Kevin, you aroused my curiosity...
What parts did you buy and was there some place left in your BMW for some CD 30? ;) :D ;D ;D :D ;) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Rob 131 on September 21, 2011, 05:16:38 AM Looks an interesting market and as you mention it was hot at 33 Degrees. I went to San Marino last year to the World Superbikes (Circuit Misano)and was stood on the Bank all day in temperatures approaching 38 Degrees ???. It has put my son off watching Motorbike Racing for life :( :(.
Did you actually stay in San Marino. I would be interested to know, as it looked like quite a nice place :). I found when drivng from Lake Garda to the Circuit, there was a serious lack of signs on the route :-\ Did you find the same in Italy. Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on September 21, 2011, 04:16:01 PM Further update and to answer some questions...
I did find the model shop in Sarlat Rob - better than average but more expensive that Ebay even when taking postage into account. Also, we did stay in Imola in the Olympia hotel. Walking distance to the track but quite expensive. I dont think we would have stayed there were it not for the event. The town was sort of taken over with the influx. Wow 38 degrees - Not pleasant. :o Heini - I didn't see any CD30s but I'm expecting a second hand set to come up for sale on the forum soon...! ;) One of the features of Il Mostro Scambio is that it is an opportunity to sell classic cars of all marques. Obviously a lot were Fiats and the following show the selection for sale...less two very special examples, more about which later... (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011511.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011510.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011506.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011505.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011504.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011493.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011491.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011489.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011475.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011474.jpg) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Thotos on September 21, 2011, 04:55:46 PM I want that blue 124 CC :-*
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: stathe174 on September 21, 2011, 05:44:45 PM Get in line :D :D :D
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: stathe174 on September 21, 2011, 05:49:00 PM Further update and to answer some questions... I did find the model shop in Sarlat Rob - better than average but more expensive that Ebay even when taking postage into account. Also, we did stay in Imola in the Olympia hotel. Walking distance to the track but quite expensive. I dont think we would have stayed there were it not for the event. The town was sort of taken over with the influx. Wow 38 degrees - Not pleasant. :o Heini - I didn't see any CD30s but I'm expecting a second hand set to come up for sale on the forum soon...! ;) One of the features of Il Mostro Scambio is that it is an opportunity to sell classic cars of all marques. Obviously a lot were Fiats and the following show the selection for sale...less two very special examples, more about which later... But you have posted a picture from cd30's in the first page. Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Robert on September 21, 2011, 06:00:24 PM Sorry boys, the blue one is for me, to complement my blue Alfa. You can struggle for the red one :D
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on September 21, 2011, 06:24:06 PM Sorry boys, the blue one is for me, to complement my blue Alfa. You can struggle for the red one :D You can all fight over the CC - But there was another dark blue Fiat there that got my juices overflowing..... ;) Details to follow... You're quite right about the CD30s now I've looked again but I wasn't in the market for them while there.... :) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on September 22, 2011, 04:52:22 PM Here is the car that outshone all the other cars for sale including classic Ferraris and Lambos. My father had one of these new in 1973 - Pale green and having replaced a 124 Berlina 1200, the 1600TC was a race car in comparison. I can remember being entranced by the quad headlights with black surrounds, the way the rev counter went around when the car was stopped and how the clear lines appeared on the foggy rear window when a magic switch was pressed on the dash. The reg was STI 466 and it was the coolest car on the street when you consider the competition was Mk2 Cortinas and Hillman Hunters.
It was also the very first car that I travelled in as a passenger at exactly 100mph (160 km/h). It was on a narrow but arrow straight country road between Kilkee and Carrigaholt (for local readers). That was when just Dad and I were in the car but whenever Mum raised a slight eyebrow about the speed, we used to point to the rev counter and say look Mum, only 40 mph when it fact the speedo said twice that. ;) I can remember Dad being stopped for speeding only once in the 1000s of miles that I travelled with him...and it was in this car. I have some old pics that I'll try and scan in sometime. Anyway this was the car of the show for me and it was great to sit in one again after 36 years. :) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on September 22, 2011, 04:55:52 PM (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011478.jpg)
(http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011479.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011481.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011482.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011485.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011488.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011520.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011521.jpg) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on September 22, 2011, 05:01:51 PM The car was obviously for sale. It was a 1975 and "run out" model. One of the run out features was front seat headrests which I had not seen before. The interior was excellent as you can see and the paintwork was to a high standard. I couldn't see if it was original or not. It had a current Revisione, had a new cam belt at 71000kms (now showing 78000kms), new brakes and shocks and a full service recently. It has also had a recent LPG conversion which I'm not a big fan of but in broken conversation I learnt why these are so common amongst old Italian Fiats for sale. These old cars are no longer permitted into the centre of old some old cities if they are pumping out petroleum waste, so gas is the solution.
The seller was very enthusiatic about the car's condition and offered a test drive the next day if I was still around. The price was ?7000 with a possible reduction to ?6500. Still way over market value and I would estimate top price to be ?5000 with ?4000 being closer to a price if he is serious about selling. Anyway, some more pictures... Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on September 22, 2011, 05:06:00 PM (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011522.jpg)
(http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011523.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011524.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011525.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011527.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011530.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011533.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011534.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011535.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011536.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011537.jpg) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Thotos on September 22, 2011, 05:33:32 PM That is truly wonderful :o I love the look of the 124 Special/Special T. It's such a simple design but so beautiful at the same time. As you said Kev, the quad headlamps with the black surrounds and the small front grill gave the car such a purposeful look. What I really liked about these cars is the way the rear lights were moved further in than the standard 124 and a chrome strip surround was added to the back. I thought that little change made the Special/Special T look so much classier than the standard 124. I had a red series 2 Special (1438cc ohv engine) with this look and I loved it. It used to impress anyone I gave a lift to. Even things which we now take for granted such as intermittent wipers were standard on these Fiats but not on other mainstream cars. I part-exchanged my 124 Special for a 131S 1600 at Fiat Kingsland Motors - Dalston. I had to take the 131 back after a couple of weeks to rectify some problems and they gave me back my 124 Special as a 'courtesy' car. I thought then that it was a mistake to exchange the 124 for the 131 but unfortunately the 124 was dissolving at an alarming rate and of course my 131 ownership continued from then to this day.... ;) :D
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: simon131 on September 23, 2011, 09:51:35 AM Stunning 124 ST!! 8) I love 124s :-* Always have and always will. ;D
Aren't there two blue 124 CCs in your photos Kev - one with alloys and one without? Personally I love the red 124 CS - had one just like it back in 1989, back when the wife had a 124 AC Coupe. Those were the days - when kids "happened" to other people ::) and two door cars were the order of the day. I think we need a forum visit to that Auto Jumble one year Kev. What an amazing place :o ;D Your pics really got my Fiat/Italy juices flowing I can tell you. I'd need a second mortgage just to buy all those 'essential' bits and pieces - especially that fantastic enamelled Abarth sign. ;) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Thotos on September 23, 2011, 10:01:53 AM Aren't there two blue 124 CCs in your photos Kev - one with alloys and one without? Well spotted Simon! In fact the interiors are a different colour too! :o I should put on my glasses more often ... ::) 8) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Rob 131 on September 29, 2011, 05:58:27 AM Kev
Indeed a very 'Special' 124. I also have very fond memories of my Dad's 124 Sport Coupe in the 70's. And amongst friends it was the best car, with the competition as I can remember being Mk 3 Cortina's, Avenger Estates :-\( Remember those) and loads of Volvo Estates :D Below is a picture of the Abarth's bought independently by my wife and I at 12 Euro Each. I got a discount of 3 Euro on mine (the one on the plinth) and an unhappy shop keeper that I should ask for discount ;) ;D :) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: bellamacchina on September 29, 2011, 07:45:34 PM Very nice pictures Kev. I had holiday in Hungary but did it in style ;)
Next month Padova Fiera ;D Love the 124 SpecialT, super combination. And of course the blue coupe. I visited Imola once around 10 years ago with my Alfetta. I was with my mum north of lake Como, so a one way trip was close to 400kms. It was on saturday and we had to leave home sunday. I left very early and had a great day buying 30 years of Quattroruote(65-95) so the interesting years. Problem was, it was my last money and at that time I didn't have a credit card. The guy who sold it to me lived in Bologna and I had to come with him after the event to pick the mags up. No problem, but coming at his home he still had to search al the mags separately as he had hugely a lot of them unsorted. 3 Hours later I had a huge pile of mags in the trunk and left to Lake Como. Had to drive careful as I hadn't any money to refuel. The next day I had to pack the car with 2 weeks of holidaystuff. My mum wondered why there was such a lot of stuff in the car and it waggled a bit. She didn't see the lights shining to the top of the trees. Till now she don't know what I transported and she knows I was so late because a huge traffic jam ;) ;D ;D BTW this magazines are marvelous material for us italian car nuts. Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on October 02, 2011, 05:07:04 PM Good story Albert - You can always find space in car when you need to!!! ;)
I said earlier that there was a second very special car at Imola. This one would be of particluar interest to people reading this in Britain or Ireland....check the pics!! :) It was a very clean Trevi 1600 Automatic with low mileage and a set of wheels that will look very familiar to regular readers - I think my views that they suit an "elegant carriage" are borne out here and it'll be interesting to hear Robert's views... :) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011498.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011497.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011496.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011495.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011494.jpg) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on October 02, 2011, 05:16:10 PM Rob I had the same experience with that model seller - I made him an offer for a model that was available much more cheaply on Ebay, but he said he'd prefer to give it away to charity than accept what was to me, a fair price.
I did indulge myself in Fiat group car models in Imola though... being able to buy some rare and (usually) expensive models such as the Linea and 128 3p (with stickers) at reasonable prices. Also picked up beautiful Giulietta (1980's version), Trevi and Beta Berlina for very small money. Also found that a model of the Sedici had been made ...which I wasn't aware of. Totally spoilt with the choice and prices... :) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/001-1.jpg) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Robert on October 02, 2011, 05:21:52 PM Quote It was a very clean Trevi 1600 Automatic with low mileage and a set of wheels that will look very familiar to regular readers - I think my views that they suit an "elegant carriage" are borne out here and it'll be interesting to hear Robert's views... wellwellwell, you remember my words of wisdom? Quote The Trevi, however, will not lose any of its beauty when fitted with these wheels and I seem to be right ;) maybe they are just too classy for a workhorse like the 131, better suited for a luxury ride from Vincenzo Lancia's stables ;D Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Thotos on October 02, 2011, 10:16:29 PM What a lovely Trevi. I WANT IT! :D And of course those wheels look great!! ;D Did you find out what a right hand drive Trevi was doing in Italy Kevin?
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Rob 131 on October 03, 2011, 05:08:03 AM The Trevi Looks Lovely, Especially with those wheels ;D :D :-*; which is a much better place for them then certain incarnations :D :D :o
Kev It can't be nice being a shopkeeper with people trying to knock you down ;D ;D Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: mirafioriman on October 03, 2011, 04:52:19 PM How much is/was the Trevi?
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on October 03, 2011, 06:03:50 PM How much is/was the Trevi? Either ?3000 or ?4000 depending on which internet advert you see. :) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: bellamacchina on October 03, 2011, 06:18:07 PM Beautiful Trevi ;D
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: stathe174 on October 03, 2011, 09:30:54 PM Terrible wheels though :D :D :D
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Thotos on October 04, 2011, 01:38:26 AM Terrible wheels though :D :D :D Lovely wheels! :-* :-* :-* (but maybe the wrong colour.... ;D) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on October 05, 2011, 06:55:21 PM This is the last instalment of the trip. The route was always intended to take in one of the more spectacular Alpine passes normally closed in late Autumn/Winter/Spring. I'd often read about the Stelvio Pass being a great driving experience so that's what we picked. It certainly exceeded expectations being quite a long climb on the Italian side (definitely the more scenic). The actual road rises almost to the level of the highest peaks visible in the photos and you really have to concentrate on the hairpin bends - especially the tight right hand turns.
The roadway is exceptionally popular with bikers and we must have been overtaken by at least 100 on the ascent alone. Popular with car enthusiasts too as the Lotus club of Italy along with a collection of Ferraris were parked in the village at the top. The actual elevation is just short of 3kms and the air is thin. On a dry sunny clear day though, it is certainly worth the diversion from the quicker routes north. The descent emerges into Switzerland and our route was taking us North West to Cherbourg. We had about 4 hrs driving through Switz to do and not having bought our motorway sticker that permits motorway driving we were a little nervous about incurring a fine. However the rule didnt seem to be enforced as we entered the country on a non motorway road, only joining the network internally. Maybe that's the secret to avoiding the charge. ;) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on October 05, 2011, 07:02:20 PM The peaks in this picture indicate how high the road climbs...
(http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011588.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011598.jpg) 24 turns to go... :) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011606.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011612.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011613.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011618.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011621.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011624.jpg) Coming down the Swiss side... (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011645.jpg) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011646.jpg) Having some fun with an X5... :) (http://i766.photobucket.com/albums/xx305/kev132/ItalyFranceSept2011650.jpg) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: mirafioriman on October 05, 2011, 07:05:23 PM I need to emigrate ;D
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Rob 131 on October 06, 2011, 05:33:07 AM It looks lovely :) and sounds like you had a great trip. Switzerland, Germany and Holland are high up on our holiday wish list.
I assume now that after such a long trip you are more impressed with the 520D then when you first purchased :D ;D. Where to next year ;D :D Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: kev131 on October 06, 2011, 09:51:00 AM Hi Rob - I must admit to being a little underwhelmed at first aquaintance but the car's engineering qualities really came into their own on this trip. The only disappointing thing was that the torque was not as meaty as I had hoped so keeping up with some fast moving traffic was not always just a small squeeze of the big toe. :)
It will be nice to get a demo of Si's latest beast in this department when the opportunity arises. :) Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Rob 131 on October 06, 2011, 10:15:06 AM Kev
At one time within any car range there was always the 'right' engine to go for that was usually the mid range one Eg 2.0 Alfa 156 (if you fancied such a Car), with the 2.5 being too big and perhaps the 1.6 a little underpowered. Now I believe the situation has changed whereby the base engine in this case is throughly competent i.e the 520D. If you want more power the best thing to do is a 'Simon' and get the most powerful ;D ;D. I did the same for my 30th Birthday; I had a perfectly acceptable 318i, and when I test drove the 320i and 325i, yes they were better :-\ but it wasn't enough. I settled on an Imola Red 330i Sport ;D :D :). With regards to 131's I would suggest that the one to go for in the S2 was the 1.6TC Super, as the minimum competent engine. It would be interesting to get some feedback on this as I never drove a S2 1600 CL that would be the other candidate ;D Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Thotos on October 06, 2011, 11:29:37 AM It would be interesting to get some feedback on this as I never drove a S2 1600 CL that would be the other candidate ;D I used to have a Series 2 1600CL and the pushrod engine is a different kettle of fish to the twin cam. Also in comparison to the 2000TC Sport, the 1600CL was way too 'soft' with springy seats and presumably softer suspension making the car feel very much like a slow comfortable saloon. Then again I never had a 1600TC S2 Super so my 'comparison' is probably not valid here. Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: simon131 on October 06, 2011, 07:12:53 PM I've had (and indeed still have ;)) ohv and TC 131s of all sizes as well as petrol and turbo-diesel 5-series and I always seem to the end up falling for the bigger more powerful engined versions - probably because I 'need' a car with a plenty of grunt to give me the 'buzz' I need when driving. :o ;D
I also tend to go for the 'Sport' models as they generally have firmer suspension and more supportive seats, again things which I prefer at the moment. ;) For my money the SE version of all 5-series is too soft. Why then did I own a 2004 530i SE for almost 5 years I hear you say - well, because it had Sport suspension and Sport seats! :D ;) Kev - next time you're over mate I'll let you loose in my 535d M Sport. Thing is you'll be going straight to your local BMW dealer and asking them for one of your own! :o :D ;D So you better get saving matey! ;D Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: mirafioriman on October 06, 2011, 07:25:23 PM I'm the other way. I much prefer a softer sprung car such as a Supermirafiori. I also own more automatics than manuals ;)
Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: Rob 131 on October 10, 2011, 05:30:39 AM I definitely prefer a slightly firmer ride then too soft, with SE Spec BMW being about ideal (current model probably a bit firmer then the model Simon is referring to). My wife complains that her Audi (SE Spec) is too firm and I think it is just about acceptable. Years ago I had a late 90?s SE Spec A4 and that was too firm ::) ::). What the Sport Models are like, I don?t know, but they are probably too firm for my taste :-\. They do however look great, like the Sport Spec BMW?s :D. I suppose it depends on how important style is to you 8) ;).
We had a Citroen C5 Estate in France this year, and this was too soft with the inevitable (one of the rear seat passenger) consequences :'( ::) :-[. How can small children produce so much. Leather interior helped the clean up, although serious further car valeting is not ideal on holiday ??? ::). One of the hire cars that I had in England this year was a Vauxhall (Opel to those on the Continent) Insignia 160 Diesel SRI (the semi sporty version). Its ride was spot on not being too firm and it had lovely sports seats. A great car and a real surprise to me. Did many enjoyable miles in this one ;D :D :). I always found my 131 Sport, firm but not uncomfortable and a good compromise :). The Noise However. Well that?s a separate subject :D. Title: Re: Italian Trip - 2011 Post by: sport fan on October 11, 2011, 01:17:59 PM Hi Kev looks like a fantastic trip ,nice to see a blue sky ;D . Monaco is beautiful we went there for the Grand Prix one year ( the year schumi decided to park on the circuit) 2006 I think . loved every minute of it , also got in the Cannes film festival and a drive along the coast .
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