Real World Reviews: Renault Vel Satis
In the latest Real World Review, Oliver Hammond gives a rather brilliant account of his Renault Vel Satis, a car he’s owned for three years. A true ‘Marmite’ car, I have to say that I fall into the ‘love’ category for simple fact that Renault dared to be different. Along with the Avantime, the Vel Satis represents a radical and bold statement and I for one applaud them for it. Just a shame that the rest of the public weren’t so welcoming. Whenever I see one on the road, I’m amazed at how large these things are. The photos give no clue to the huge proportions of the Vel Satis. I saw one recently on the A303 alongside Stonehenge and I could have sworn it cast a shadow over the stones! Read more 
Real World Reviews: Daihatsu Charade GTti
In the third episode of PetrolBlog’s Real World Reviews, Simon Ford (@sf4d74) remembers his old Daihatsu Charade GTti. The little GTti is respected as an 80s cult car, verging on classic status. It had a power-to-weight ratio of 122 bhp, helped by being incredibly lightweight at just 808kg. It also had a tiny 1.0 3-cylinder engine producing a rather unique soundtrack. I’ll let Simon tell his story, but would suggest following Simon on twitter for great automotive chat and plenty of car photos!
Real World Reviews: MK2 Vauxhall Astra
Craig was the inspiration that led to getting these Real World Reviews off the ground, so it seems fitting that here he is giving an account of his old 1980s Vauxhall.
You can follow Craig on twitter at @KuangEleven or read Torquesteer, his rather excellent blog. Sadly Craig doesn’t have any photos of his car, so you’ll have to make do with library shots! Read more
Real World Reviews: Mini Clubman
In the first of the new series of Real World Reviews, Rob Griggs-Taylor (@robgt2 on twitter), takes a reflective look back at his first car – a Mini Clubman.
Your first car is a rite of passage. You choose something that projects an image, carefully cultivated within the limits of a tight budget and ludicrous insurance quotes. It will be an extension of your personality, the first impression when you arrive. No matter what the car is, or in what condition, many people fall in love with their first car and often go the extra mile when fiscal restraint and common sense are screaming logic, but the heart is committed to insane and costly action. Read more
Real world reviews of real world cars
I’ve been planning a new section for PetrolBlog for some time now but everyday life keeps getting in the way. But then I read this article on @KuangEleven’s blog, Torquesteer: Read more
