A RHD in Continental Europe

[Lual]

Hi, just joined to this great forum.

I have been chasing in the last year few S1 in the market that unfortunatly have been bought by somebody else in the last minute.

I have seen now a 4.2 right hand drive in quite good shape. While I have never driven a RHD, I think I could get used to it.

As I am from continental Europe, my concern is how much apetite is there for these RHD out of the islands / how easy these cars can be sold. If I finally buy it, I hope to keep it for many years, but life is unpredictable and you never know (health, financials...)

Any view?
Thanks a lot

[Simonpfhc]

Hi Lual,

Great to have you on the forum!

Why don’t you consider converting to LHD? It is relatively simple and the only major component you need is the steering rack. These are readily available second hand as many UK owners convert to RHD (as I did). You will also have the benefit of selling all the RHD bits very easily as they are in demand here in the UK.

However, driving a car sitting on the other side will be easy to get used to. The only real problem you will have is overtaking and paying tolls, both of which work better sitting on the LHS.

Cheers.

[spanish 2+2]

Hi Lual, i´ve been in Spain for 16 years now with a RHD E-Type and not had a problem. When overtaking i just hang back from the car in front so i can see the on-coming traffic and on the rare occasions i use the toll roads i just lean over or let the passenger pay or collect the ticket.

[Lual]

Thanks to both for your answers.

[MCY44H]

Hi Lual,

I’ve had the same the problem the other way around (I.e. a LHD in the UK). I had intended to get it converted but to be honest I’ve grown used to it and probably won’t change it. Just remember to hug the curb as you go around bends!

And if you stick with it, there will always be a ready market for a RHD in the UK should you wish to sell it.

Basically, if it’s a good quality, rust-free car then go for it! As my son said to me “Dad, if you buy one now, then you’ll have more time to enjoy it before we send you to the old folks home.”

Jon