Marek

Oh, the appliances we pass on the road each day. I've seen nothing close to an appliance on these pages! If not original, then certainly fresh to my eye - especially in the current century with only one exception coming to mind. The Fisker Karma is its own statement of the same long-nose coupe and just as difficult to capture in a photograph. This formula is one of my favorites; with, as you point out, the 1960s being a rich source of great examples. Most of my own time with long-nose coupes is with Porsche 944s. But I'll save that for its own post.

Now my turn to be jealous. The Z4 Coupe has been taunting me for years. The lines, proportions, and scale are all just right - and together in an original way that isn't trying to be a better version of something else. These are one of those cars which are more striking in person than pictures can seem to capture. On the street, to me they are art among appliances. By comparison, the convertible does nothing for me. And the blue is perfect.

2013 BMW 128i M-Sport Manual Using the classic small chassis-big engine formula, the E82 is the last of an era of rear drive, normally-aspirated, non-electronic steering, pre-driver-assist cars. The 3L straight six is a joy; with a quick throttle response and plenty of torque at all times. The 1-series is an honest hot hatch alternative with comfort and quality a cut above the alternatives. This car came to me after a six month search starting in late 2018. I always try to find the Most Special Variant of a car. In the case of a 1-series: a six-speed manual with the full set of M-Sport packages, sunroof, a light interior and not black or silver. I never considered the more powerful 135i as the extra power adds nothing to the experience for me but the extra complexity would certainly take away. After months of looking and few close matches I found this car with 48k miles and I gave in on the color. A flight to SC and drive back to Boston convinced me the wait was worth it. 35k miles later, maintenance has been very minimal (and cheap and easy to do myself). The timing also turned out well. We've taken a number of extended trips with the car and it has added to the enjoyment of every one; including a trip to southern WV, multiple drives through the Finger Lakes, and a Boston to St. Paul run for my son's start of college and the solo return trip across the Upper Peninsula with stops at each of the Great Lakes. The car has been a good companion during the many changes of the past few years. The front bumper is the only modification. The previous owner added this 1M Tribute nose. I really like the look. But I really dislike the ground clearance. That the car is otherwise stock is notable as this is the first car I've owned since the early 80s which hasn't received a full suspension. It doesn't need it. In M-Sport configuration I am not convinced I can improve the character of the car. I could improve the handling performance - but not in any way which is usable on the street. A footnote: The Saab 9-3 Sportwagen Manual (LRH or Long-Roof Hatch in our family parlance) is a former family car. I'd sing its praises as well - but one car per thread and current stock only! More to come.

@slowdude, what a great idea! My own 7 winter project is moving along well; though I do have some upcoming decisions to make on new harnesses and headrest for which consultation would be a help. I'd also benefit from some 13b turbo expertise in diagnosing a problem. And I would definitely be willing to lend a hand. I might even have a bit of shop space available for short projects.

Thanks for sending your friends by today, @TMRL7. Out of the blue we had a fastback Mustang, XKE convertible, P1800S wagon, and MGB pull up and we had some great conversations. Hope to see you next time.

A couple of us will be around the shop from at least 9:30 - 12:30 on Saturday. As you come around the back you will see a red M100 Elan and a pair of Spec Miatas parked by the door and a 'Yolo Moto Co' sign on the building.

Late Saturday morning or sometime Sunday afternoon are options. We have the space on the back side of 92 Great Road; behind 'Car Lot Express'. I'll check schedules and update this thread. Yes, this was Dan's car...

My apologies for teasing a gathering and not making it happen. Instead of following through on the get together, I bought a Seven. Last weekend I picked it up in PA and it is now in Stow and halfway through the work needed before a first drive. The Seven is a 13B-powered 1989 Rotus. Though in generally good condition, I still need to refit the cleaned and re-sealed fuel tank. If anyone is looking for an excuse for a cool, late-season drive and curious what I have gotten myself into, I'd be glad to host something informal at our shop. It is quite close to Nan's Rustic Kitchen if good coffee and breakfast is important.

Any interest in a reprise of last years gathering? As fall approaches, the remaining good weekend are few. And I have not seen enough interesting Lotus this year. Though I have been able to drive or ride in a few.

A great turn out and good to meet everyone. We had 4 Sevens and 3 Elise; plus a trio of German fans.

A group from Lotus Talk are planning to meet in Acton Saturday morning. https://www.lotustalk.com/threads/small-cars-and-coffee-acton-ma.450217/page-4#post-6126988

I count 7 MetroWest + CT Sevens in this thread. It will be 8 if the Seven I am stalking comes through. Is there any interest in getting together while the weather is still on our side? I am in Marlborough and have an interest in a shop on Rt. 117 in Stow.

Yes, just one of us!

I am very much looking forward to hearing more. I am just down the street in Marlborough, MA.

Quite true. Though the rules can seem involved in MA, in my own experience the bark is much worse than the bite. I've been able to navigate salvage titles, out of state temporary plates, and estate transfers of titles with minimal hassle. My habit is to attempt the simplest path but have the documentation ready to adapt as needed.

Count me in. I am in Marlborough (near the Pike and 495) and in the hunt for my first Seven.