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Old 08-03-2009, 21:14   #1
Zirax
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Default Gas conversion?

Well I have a bit of a problem which I am racking my brains about. I have a '99 Focus Zetec 1.8 that currently has 84k on the clock. I've recently started commuting long distance for work which equates to about 25k/ year just business miles (personal on top).

The Focus is handling this sudden increase in miles really well and I don't have any problems spending 3-4 hours driving in it. I currently get around 37mpg out of it.

My original thoughts were to eventually get a mondeo st and put on gas. However I get my kicks from the mr2, and there aren't really any kicks to be had down the a14 in rush hour. I'm coming to the conclusion that although nice, is there really a point getting the sporty model to sit on the motorway?

Which brings me to the problem. I'm looking at anything around 3-4k (I refuse to pay more than this as it will be wrecked in public car parks). This will then be converted to gas and run till it goes bang. Many newer cars (that aren't base models) seem to be nearing 70k in this bracket. The conversions are around £1500, which will be made back damn quick. The other thought it to convert the Focus and run that until it goes bang. However privately (after tidying up) it will fetch £1500 max.

So really should I bother converting the Focus with 84k on or keep it on petrol and run till it goes... or chop it in and get a newer car? I am trying to stay away from derv as I am a foot down merchant.
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Old 08-03-2009, 22:12   #2
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It might just be me but I don't really see the need to lay out £4000 plus a £1500 gas conversion if the Focus is handling everything you throw at it really well.

Why not just carry on using it?
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Old 08-03-2009, 22:25   #3
Zirax
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Yep you are right, it's something that I'm mulling over at the moment. I think the thing is to see where we are in 6 months time. I would like a newer motor but then again its doing all I need.... I have had it nearly four years now.
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Old 08-03-2009, 22:44   #4
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If you just want a new car, that's fair enough, it just seemed a bit odd the way you said the Focus was basically ideal and then ran through a load of money saving stuff.
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Old 09-03-2009, 08:28   #5
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I've been around a few Focus's with over 200k up them so they can take the miles no problem. I would just keep it & stay on top of servicing/repairs.
If you really have a need for gas then I would buy a ready converted motor with a certificate rather than convert one myself via a registered conversion place.
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Old 09-03-2009, 09:31   #6
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Paul Woods will convert the MR2 for you
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Old 09-03-2009, 10:28   #7
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Seems like a lot of money to spend on something that will take a while to recoup the cost ?

I'm sure the sums could be done, how many miles have you got to do before you get the £4500 cost of the conversion back ?
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Old 09-03-2009, 12:10   #8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Justsomebloke View Post
I've been around a few Focus's with over 200k up them so they can take the miles no problem. I would just keep it & stay on top of servicing/repairs.
If you really have a need for gas then I would buy a ready converted motor with a certificate rather than convert one myself via a registered conversion place.
Thats reassuring, thanks

Quote:
Originally Posted by kaiowas View Post
Paul Woods will convert the MR2 for you
Yes.... as much as I enjoy the 2, that would involve buying a second one. I don't fancy routinely doing long distance in one.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Peige View Post
Seems like a lot of money to spend on something that will take a while to recoup the cost ?

I'm sure the sums could be done, how many miles have you got to do before you get the £4500 cost of the conversion back ?
Well the cost of the conversion I would get back in three months. I get a higher rate for the first 10k, then it drops right down. The rest I would write off for a new motor (minus whatever I get for mine)
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