Benji

It seems my son in law has beaten me to do it, yes the Lotus has gone after 10 fun years, and on to the pleasures of the GT86, pure luxury after the Lotus.

Excellent finish, really worth the hard work and effort. Don't really understand why people would question the point of polishing your pride and joy. 

Looks lovely. Have you still got the Brera?
 

Thank you John. I have been fortunate to have received some driver training beyond the basics so whilst I never ever want to put anyone at risk on the roads, I do enjoy an engaging drive and I think this I the perfect car for ultimate driver involvement (at this sort of price). The fact that is left field made it all the more appealing. To buy something that doesn't follow the masses is what really appeals to me as well. 

Welcome along Benji!
if you enjoy 'driving' then you'll love the 86. I find it great fun mastering the art of driving again after many more powerful cars in the past.
the VW is a very good car but rather predictable and as you say a safe choice. The GT 86 is a bit left field (which I like) and if you find your self explaining it to someone then they are not a car person! Have fun driving again my friend!
oh and if you get a chance come and join us on track as the Drivers Club organise many many events to hone those skills in a safe environment.
 
John

Hi Ben and welcome to the GT86 and BRZ Driver's Club

Welcome to the club and a wise move you've made

Good choice Ben
The Golf would have been a safe decision...probably. But the GT86 is a safe decision with a whole loan of fun chucked in
The availability and diversity of aftermarket parts is certainly one aspect of the 86 that I love. It means that everyone is able to modify their cars in a way that suits them

Hi Ben, 
Welcome to the club, I think you made a wise choice cancelling the VW order and going for the 86. It will be a more engaging drive and it will no doubt have hurt their reputation. Regardless of if you buy a petrol or diesel VAG, it's definitely going to affect its depreciation rate for the foreseeable future in my eyes.

I decided to cancel because of the current issues facing VW. I'm not one to jump on the bandwagon about such matters and I know it only affects diesel engines but the bigger picture was more problematic for me. I buy into a brand and have owned 4 VWs before, so I guess it just tainted my excitement towards the brand. When I drove the 86, it made my mind up. I think the Golf was a compromise of  car that does everything well but just didn't excite in the way the 86 does. Hope that makes sense lol.

Thanks guys, I'm looking forward to the aftermarket fun and making the car my own. Nicebiscuit, I agree that it isn't as refined or as solid but I'll be honest, I've had that before and whilst it serves a purpose, I want to have fun driving again and enjoy going out for drives. I feel the Golf wouldn't have quite delivered that. Really excited about getting one I must say.