First Impressions

[Tombola]

So far driven 3 rs', a phase 1 with 53k and pretty special if you ask me, and two 172 Cup's with 71 and 54k. However, what strike'd me most was that I think the phase 1 was the better car in terms of drive. Pulled smoothly, nice start up with a smooth idle and suspension really smoothing out the bumps. I've read a few buyers guides of what to look out for and really couldn't fault it, I would go as far to say that it FEELS quicker than the cups.
The first Cup was a bit of a shocker in that the indicators didn't work (new relay apparently) the bonnet release catch had snapped off and there were a few scuffs and dinks in very noticeable places. Ride was qood. Brakes were sharp but not really bighting and acceleration good. Felt more "controlled" than the ph1. The next Cup had done less miles, better bodywork and drove pretty well. However, on start up was whining like mad but eventually smoothed out, driving it along though the steering wheel was dancing about all over the place, improved a a little on a smoother road, just didnt feel right. Also had a very oily underside to engine AND when I was looking through the service bills I found one of particular interest that read..
..SERVICE CARRIED OUT TO INVESTIGATE DAMAGE TO VALVES..
which was followed by a long list of parts including valves, cambelt etc blah blah.

 

[ch!ppen]

I'd guess that it's more down to the way they've been looked after.

Both the Cup's you've described sound quite abused/uncared for. I'd say go find another Cup which hasn't been so neglected and try that.

 

[Tombola]

Yeah they deffinately had seen better days. Felt good though I must admit, I just think the ph1 felt a bit better.

 

[ch!ppen]

Yeah they deffinately had seen better days. Felt good though I must admit, I just think the ph1 felt a bit better.

If it's a good car, there's nothing dodgy on the HPI and you'd be happy to own it - go for it.
If you still think you'd like a Cup then as i said, find a decent one and have a drive.

It's all how a car is cared for imo. I've driven 50/60k mile VTR's that felt shed's compared to my 100k mile VTR (do miss it lol!).

 

[TheEvilGiraffe]

Ph1s are much nicer to drive on anything more exciting than a trip to Tesco.

But as mentioned, both of those sound like sheds to be avoided at all costs !

 

[Clio-Ell]

Some adverts look genuine then when viewing they are not so.

I've got all this too look forward to, searching for my next car.

 

[TheEvilGiraffe]

^ Buy my Scoob.

 

[Clio-Ell]

^ Buy my Scoob.

Lets not be silly now...

 

[yeecup]

no brainer really. if the ph1 is that good buy it. they are great cars and very cheap just now.

 

[jack_kemp]

There can be more difference between one cup and another than there is between models.
You really do have to drive as many as you can to get an idea of what it is that you want. There's not a lot between the cup and the phase1 really. The cable throttle is the only thing you'll notice, and that's only if you really concentrate.

 

[Tombola]

Yeah, its been a real challenge to be honest. Sifting through the net trying to find ones that look good and hopefully turn out ok. Thoughts the Cup on 50k was it but as soon as I saw that bill for damaged valves I just though "turn and run" they said they'd had it all checked out and re-done though. Still, at 3500 its a little steep!! OIf anyones got a nice little cup they want to rid of by summer near Surrey let me know! Btw, brakes felt rediculously sharp on the Cup, right? Also whining on idle, whats wit that?