Hi Les,
My very early S1 Roadster, 2004 with the Getrag 5 speed gearbox was purchased from Berrybrook (nice people to deal with) last December. I upgraded it straight away with the SSL front and rear suspension kits. It's a lovely car to drive - easy to potter along at 20mph when required but having startling acceleration too. It gives well over 30 mpg on basic unleaded. If you'd like a drive, message me. I live in North Somerset, presumably not too far from you.
Incidentally, the road tax on Roadsters registered before 23 March 2006 id £395. After that date it rises to £675. At some time (late 2007? can't be sure) the Roadster emissions reduced so that it fell back into the £395 category. If that is relevant to your decision-making, then check the emissions of any Roadster offered for sale by entering the registration number onto the DVLA Vehicle Enquiry facility.
Hi Tony
Thanks for the info, and the offer of a drive. I must say the S1 Roadster does seem to be highly regarded, but for me I'm uneasy with the idea of going from a 3 year old Plus 4 to a car that's nearly 20 years older. Of the S2 and S3 the S3 seems favourable as the engine has more power and it has the wider track at the front, but the VED on those cars is extortionate. There's a nice pale blue S3 in Berrybrooks at present but it means going up to the 3.7 engine with £675 per annum VED!
I suppose a 3litre S3 would be ideal, but then the question of the Transit gearbox and rev hang start to come into play.
Needless to say I am still mulling it over.
