I've bought my first car this Friday and am absolutely chuffed with the result!I think I've pu
lled off a real bargain, couping a low mileage 97 Mitsubish Challenger 2.8TD (only 60.000 miles, or 95.000km on the old lady).Here's a few photos, look how proud he is! I haven't named this Beast yet, but plenty of names such as Sam, The Mountain Mobile, Big Basteward, and The Tank (or Frank the Tank?) have sprung to mind so far.
I may also name it after a beautiful coleen, but haven't decided who should be honoured with this poetic comparison yet (some girl with pretty yellow eyes, wide hips, and a big nose).
First Drives!
I've driven the Challenger for a week now and am absolutely delighted with it. It took a few days to "break her in" and get used to the bulk of the car, and the fact that you need to rely much more on your mirrors than in a normal car.
The 2.8TD engine really packs a punch even carrying the 1.9ton frame, and can get you out of a tight spot with no trouble at all. The ability to change from 2 wheel-drive to 4 wheel-drive is handy as well, saving fuel in the city, will enjoying the full extra grip and strength when prowling the wet, uneven roads of County Wicklow.
I've installed a GPS in the car, so don't have to focus on finding my way, just follow instructions, which is great for a first time car owner. I've purchased the Garmin Nuevi 660, and I'll just send my warmest recommendations for this product, it's superb and will get you anywhere (and for you thieves out there, I don't leave it in the car, so you'll have to clutch it from my cold dead hands if you want it).
Thirsty Beast
It's not the most economical car you'll ever buy, but I will recommend it still. Considering the punch and space you get in this car, the insurance and motor tax are really relatively cheap, and the classical look of this model makes it so much more satisfying to own than the never "Pick Up the Kids" model of jeeps.
The Challenger (also called Pajero Sport in most countries) comes with a 79 litre tank, and enormous tires (apparently 140 euro to replace a piece, but they'll take some breaking).
I've already formed a bit of a bond with this car, and can see myself sticking with it to the end. I have included it in my will, and made sure that it will be buried in our family cemetary (next to our late dog Wikie).
There's no limit to the usability of this vehicle for trips into the wild and way, so that's where I think it'll really come into it's own, now let me get a few cool gadgets to it. The rear compartment is so big and so flexible that it can be turned into what looks like a very comfortable double-bed, so you've got half a camper van and base-camp build right into the car.
And did I mention that it comes with a hanger and will pull 2.7 tons? Or as the salesman said: "This is the kind of car that will be pulling your landrovers out of the muck..."
In other words: Joy alround!!!
