Should I or Shouldn't I

[izzolaw]

Hi -- Jeff here from the USA, but moving to Edinburgh in August (will be there for a year). Considering an R4 as my regular motor -- I know I should buy a Clio/206/Panda et al (read logical, practical and reliable) -- but am infected with the classic bug. So I was thinking of something in the R4, 2CV, Mini class -- fun, interesting, but not exotic. So is an R4 really a usable and relatively reliable proposition for the modern world? I'd be doing around town stuff -- shopping, school run, etc -- but also the semi-frequent day or weekend trip up into the Highlands, the Coast, and so on. I'm sure city use poses no problem -- but what about motorway? Are they completely inappropriate for this? I know a 2CV or even a Mini can be quite a challenge on a 2 or 3 hour road trip -- I've driven both those cars before -- do R4's fare any better (at least they don't have those blasted hinged windows)? I'll appreciate any and all opinions, advice, and comment. And of course if anyone has one for sale...
Thanks!

 

[jjad]

Hi Jeff, welcome to the forum.
It's been a while since I've been in a Mini, but the R4 is much more spacious and comfortable. The R4 is quieter than the air-cooled 2CV. A R4 GTL with the 1108cc engine has no trouble cruising at 60mph. Perhaps not recommended for a long daily commute, but perfect for those weekend trips to the country or the motorway. Go for it! Be sure to check carefully the usual trouble spots when buying though.

 

[malcolm]

Renault 4s are fine for every day use. Better than modern cars in town, though noisier on the motorway. I don't own a modern car, and do the occasional really long trip in the R4, but like to avoid long trips. Faster, quieter and more driveable than the 2CV, and you aren't constantly bouncing up and down like you would in a Mini.

Difficulty is getting hold of one these days. There are only about 200 on the road in the UK, many of the cars sold need work, and they seem to be concentrated in the South of England rather than anywhere near Edinburgh.

Good choice if you can find one. If you are really keen you might be able to rent one for the year.

PS - I cruise at 80mph in mine.

 

[Bluebell]

Howdy Jeff,
Make sure you get the GTL with the 1100cc engine. I have the 956cc TL variety and while she goes well and is very comfortable, she does not have the acceleration of Mr B's larger F4 van.

BTW I bought Blanche the TL from Glasgow. Perfect bodywork for such a damp place! For a couple of years she quite happily went between Leeds and Burgundy in France. Now we are settled in France she is very happy pottering about on the French roads.

 

[izzolaw]

Thanks!

Great answers, everyone -- especially when they're all what I was hoping to hear.

Malcolm -- where on earth could I RENT one for a year? That sounds intriguing and perfect for my needs (although if I purchased a 1985 or earlier I could take it back to the states with me).

I found one for sale in Devon that sounds nice from the description. Anyone know of an expert down that way who might be able to take a look at it for me (for a price, of course)? Let me know and I'll pass along the link.

Thanks again!