Whilst hunting for spares for my A series, I came across a listing for a 1986 Berlinetta Hatch. It looked fairly decent, with a bit of corrosion in the rear panel, and some bubbly arches on the o/c.

It had 6 months MOT, and 3 months tax. I thought I'd stick the opening bid (£300) on to get it started for the guy, and then see how much it went for. A few days later I'm on my way to Cheltenham to pick it up!  Why didn't anyone else bid on it?

Driving it back she ran like a dream, but there was no way I could afford a third car, so she had to go. After advertising it on the club website, and CCW with no response, I decided to insure her (my A was off the road getting it's new block).

Added onto my classic policy with my A, I started driving her. The very next day I got a call from someone interested in buying her. As I'd not get a rebate of any of my premium, I couldn't afford to sell her, so I'm now using her as my everyday car (stops me adding too many more to the 265000 my Pug 405 has done).

I'm so pleased I didn't sell, as she's fantastic to drive (but I'm sure will cost a lot come mot time). If anyone knows any history on this car, please e-mail me ixionpinned@hotmail.com