Michael McAleeranswers your questions
From Philip Boyle, Dublin:
I have read many articles in motoring magazines as well as in the Motors supplement that Volkswagen proposes to re-launch a new updated version of the iconic sports car of the early 1970s, the Scirocco.
Are these reports correct and if so, when can we expect to see such a reincarnation of a car that turned heads all those years ago?
The Scirocco is indeed making a comeback and will be introduced to the market next year, with arrival in Irish showrooms in autumn 2008.
A concept of the new Scirocco was shown at the 2006 Paris motor show, called the Iroc.
It is said to share more in spirit and name rather than form with the original design. The new car will be powered by two petrol engines: Volkswagen's 1.4-litre TSI twincharged engine that produces 168bhp and currently features in the Golf GT, and the 200bhp 2-litre FSI engine currently in the Golf GTi.
From M Coyle, Dublin:
On the N11 in Dublin at Cabinteely there is a massive concrete footbridge which must have cost half a million euro, but a few hundred metres south there is a pedestrian-controlled crossing where one person can stop the whole N11, both ways. What is the logic which determines whether a road crossing gets a pedestrian-controlled crossing which stops the traffic, or an expensive footbridge which does not?
As with many features of our roads network, there is little sign of logic. According to the NRA the reason for the bridge and pedestrian crossing is "public safety reasons".
While public safety concerns are a priority for all of us, it would seem a little extreme to offer both options on a major national route.
The pedestrian crossing is only about 500 metres from the footbridge and its impact is not only in stopping traffic at regular incidents to allow people who can't be bothered to cross on the bridge - it also requires a reduced speed limit in that area.
While we're not suggesting that pedestrians should not be catered for, the irony of the situation is that in many other areas of the city there is a lack of either option for pedestrians.
From C Hannigan:
I'm a long-time VW Golf owner, caught in the trap of trading in and replacing one Golf for another every three years. My husband says it's time for a change. I currently have a three-door 1.6-litre petrol comfortline.
I've got a bigger budget than before (about €10,000 plus trade-in), but still have a soft spot for the Golf. I'm not interested in performance but I have to admit that image is important. Any suggestions?
The Golf has been something of an image icon over the years, and despite the fact that there have only been the slightest changes recently in its look, sales are still strong. It's got premium credentials, despite being a mainstream model. That is despite prices being at a premium compared to competitors.
With a trade-in, you should have about €25,000 for a new car. That will get you into a Volvo C30 1.6-litre, a Honda Civic 1.8-litre SE or a Mini Cooper.
Unfortunately, all have their limitations when compared with the VW. You will only get an entry-level C30, while space is at a premium in the Volvo compared to the Golf.
With the Mini you will have all the cachet of the image and plenty of performance - though you say you don't care about this - but space again is an issue.
With the Honda, it's got the reputation for reliability and smart styling, but the jury is out on how long its looks will last before they become dated.
I would suggest you try the Honda and the Volvo, but perhaps you are ignoring another important option: the used car market.
There is a tendency for Golf owners to move into the Audi A3 and the Germans have mastered this handover. Perhaps a used A3 may be an option, or an older BMW 3-Series.
From M Taylor:
When is the best time of year to buy a used car for cash?
It's really down to how dealers manage their stock levels of used cars, but autumn can usually be a good time as dealers like to turn the metal on their forecourts into cash, in order to clear space for the trade-ins coming their way in January.
You also get rental cars coming on to the market after the summer. Many have relatively low mileage, and provided they've had a good service they can offer very good value. If you are selling privately and buying from a dealer, then October to December is a good time.
Send your queries to Motors Helpdesk, The Irish Times, Tara St, Dublin 2 or e-mail motorshelp@irish-times.ie