In terms of car choice (previous thread I started in this section): may I recommend the BMW 1 series diesels.
The 118d is high on BHP and performance is quite impressive, especially compared to the VW Bluemotion and Ford Focus Tdci, yet MPG is excellent and it is in tax band B, which means £35 per year tax, and free in congestion zones!
Although, this is only on Post Sept 2007 models, therefore looking at £23k for a well spec'd new one, or £18k (if lucky) on a second hand one. So this is still not a viable option for me either....
... car manufacturers are starting to develop car which or lower on emmissions but unfortunatley it'll be a few years when depreciation has run its cause will I be able to afford one in reality. (That battery operated sports car: the Tesla, I hope this technology reachs all car types!!
its FAST)
Ive been considering my options for weeks now, and come to the conclusion to stick with the car I have for another year or two, and modify it a little to keep me from getting the bug for buying something different. Maybe when i can afford a 2nd hand 118d I will then change, or maybe not.
Chris