Originally Posted by Mike Rainbird

I went from a 500bhp Sapphire to a 400bhp Escort. Suffice to say it didn't stay 400bhp for long!

Even though it is now similar power, it is nowhere near as fast as the Sapphire and from 100mph the Sapphire would just romp away, as the aero pack / transmission losses of the Escort have a huge effect on acceleration once three figures have been reached. A 500bhp Sapphire was also MUCH more fun, BUT (and it's a biggy), it was a hooligan's car and it MADE you drive it like a twat and I would imagine if I still had mine, I would have a) been locked up or b) been banned or c) crashed it - oh yeah, I already did that .

However, the Escort is faster point to point (traction), faster on track (traction / braking) and it just feels nicer / more modern to drive (no surprises there).

I would love a Sapphire again, but I know it would bring out the worst in my driving habbits .