Faults:

The left speaker did not work properly. Had some crackling noise. But since it was still part of the used car warranty (3 months), I was able to have it fixed.

Apart from that, nothing else has gone wrong with this car so far.

General Comments:

Well, this car is a beast. By far and away the best car I've driven. The performance is simply amazing. I'll sum up the accelaration in one line: From a standing start, I took it to 140km/h and then back to 0 over about 150-180 metres of road.

Anyone thinking about getting this car should get either the white or the red. The Formula red is just a beautiful colour, and if well polished, is one of the most eye catching cars on the road.

The engine is quite loud and there are only 2 speakers. So, whatever music that comes through the speakers gets drowned by the engine. With the top down, you can't hear much, if anything. But I certainly didn't buy this car so that I can listen to music!

The car is quite comfortable to sit in. I'm quite small at 5'8" and about 70 kilos, but I feel that I just blend in with the car. All controls are within reach of the driver.

Of course, enough cannot be said about the VTEC engine. Once the 6000 rpm is hit, the car just takes off. Some people have mentioned that the take off is like turbo. Well, it's not quite true but you can definitely feel it. Let's say 2/3 turbo.

But if I had to choose my most favourite characterisitic of the car, it would have to be the handling. U can quite easily take corners or turns at 20 km/h over the normal speed you would do that same corner/turn with a Lancer.

Overall, this car is simply fantastic. And a real head turner. :)

Faults:

Soft top has needed to be replaced 3 times as it has cracked twice and was cut with a knife a third.

I have since bought a hardtop as I am so sick of replacing it.

General Comments:

Real fun - so much better than my old ML320. But NEVER EVER buy a car with a soft top roof - they are nothing, but trouble. I constantly polish and condition it, but it cracks and people cut it with a knife. Also, it looks kinda funny with a black roof and I feel like I have an umbrella on my head when I drive. I hate soft tops with a passion and advise anyone to think twice about them.

The $4000 hardtop is the best investment one can have. Besides, it is too hot here to drive with the roof off.

Car could do with more torque - hardly keeps up with a well driven WRX or 350Z Nissan.

Faults:

Nothing has failed mechanically. Just the odd rattle from the passenger side dash. Dealer rectified this.

Plastic window creases over no time at all. Needs care to keep clear!

Seat leather needs care also, creases very quickly.

General Comments:

A nice little roadster, rigid chassis is superb, but rear suspension has too much bounce when going though fast bends. German build quality still feels more solid.

Brakes are really superb!, as are the xenon headlights & gearshift.

Engine is economical, but lacks low end torque (i mean this), revving to 6000rpm around town is not really feasible!. Needs a six cylinder.

Bumpy ride on any surface exc for racetrack smooth surfaces. Very tiring on long distances, makes it less practical than you think. Otherwise, as a drivers tool, handling/feedback is VERY good.

Interior very drab for the money. No toys or even a clock (no matter) - get a 2 tone interior!. Too plasticky & no storage space exc boot!.