Bluebird – time to go?

The lack of recent posts hasn’t been aided by me dashing off to cover 1100 miles in the Bluebird in recent days. It completed the trip with barely any problems really, but I fear I’ve reached the end of the line with this car. I’ve poured money and effort into it, but it’s time for new challenges and adventures, and I’m not sure I’m that keen for the Bluebird to remain part of my plans.

Here’s how the trip went, in video form.

Aside from the issues, I guess the major reason for wanting a change is that the engine just isn’t really powerful enough for the size. Specifically, I want more torque, having been rather spoilt by the meaty 135lb.ft the Honda puts out (at 4200rpm). The Bluebird has just 92lb.ft, to move a rather chunky amount of car. It slows down on hills, and has to be worked hard to build speed. On the other hand, the Honda is pretty rapid and barely notices hills. Also, the kickdown function is hilarious, as the boxy Honda tries its best to sound like a CRX as it launches itself down the road. Addictive stuff.

On the plus side, the Bluebird achieved 37-41mpg on the trip, which the Honda can only dream of. Funny that. A bigger engine, auto gearbox and lack of aerodynamics make the Honda a fair bit thirstier. Who knew?

None of this is much of a surprise really. My previous Bluebird was a 2-litre, and that went very nicely. It was also a hatchback, which is far more practical, and was far better mechanically. Overall, the Bluebird has gained me many YouTube views, but it hasn’t really been a great buy! I dread to think how much money I’ve thrown at it, and I’m now trying to sell it for just £600. I’m an idiot.

To be fair to the Bluebird, it was in a pretty poor state when it arrived here, and it has now largely proved itself reliable, and it can effortlessly cover great distances. Here’s the thing though, the Honda has really got me used to sitting up. I don’t like sitting down!

I’ve always had a fondness for cars where your hips sit nice and high. It’s one reason I love the 2CV. And Land Rovers. It also helps explain why SUVs are so popular. Everyone loves that high-up sitting stance. Well, everyone bar 20-year olds in baseball caps perhaps, and sports car lovers (I’m very much not one of those!).

Turns out Mr HubNut likes a bit of height. Bluebird must therefore go.

The Proton is also for sale at the moment. I need a bit of a clear-out. The Proton is just sat on the driveway doing nothing, which is entirely pointless and will eventually be quite harmful for it. So, I can crack on with pondering what I might want next. It’s not very clear what that will be.

3 thoughts on “Bluebird – time to go?

  1. Ian,
    I need to contact your regarding a sticker purchase, it going to go to my old address I need to send you my new address PayPal has messed up my primary address how can I contact you

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