A Trio of Driving Joy

In a world increasingly dominated by electric vehicles, the allure of traditional combustion engines remains strong. For enthusiasts seeking a thrilling driving experience without breaking the bank, a used three-car garage comprised of a BMW 6 Series, Lexus RC F, and Honda Civic Type R can be assembled for under £85,000. Let’s dive into what makes these vehicles standout choices for any gearhead.

BMW 6 Series: A Diesel Delight

The BMW 6 Series offers a blend of performance and luxury, particularly in the 640d variant, priced around £10,995. Under the hood, it boasts a 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine, delivering a robust 313 bhp and an impressive 630 Nm of torque. This means not only exhilarating acceleration—0-62 mph in just 5.4 seconds—but also efficiency, with a potential fuel economy of 49.6 mpg.

With a stylish design that moves away from the controversial elements of its predecessor, the 6 Series offers a comfortable interior and a generous 460-litre boot, making it a practical choice for long journeys. This combination of performance, efficiency, and comfort makes it a prime candidate for any enthusiast’s garage.

Honda Civic Type R: The Hot Hatch King

The Honda Civic Type R stands out in the hot hatch segment, especially the FK2 model, which can be found for approximately £17,990. This model features a turbocharged K20 engine that cranks out 306 bhp and 400 Nm of torque, delivering a thrilling 0-62 mph time of just 5.7 seconds. Its record-setting performance at the Nürburgring showcases its capabilities as a track-ready machine.

While its exterior design may polarize opinions, the driving experience is universally praised. The rev-happy nature of the engine, combined with agile handling, makes it a joy to drive on both the road and the track.

Lexus RC F: The V8 Powerhouse

Completing this trio is the Lexus RC F, available for around £54,436. This sports coupe is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine that delivers a thrilling 463 bhp and 520 Nm of torque. Yamaha’s involvement in the engine’s development ensures a distinctive and exhilarating exhaust note that is hard to match.

The RC F’s interior, though filled with buttons and somewhat less ergonomic, boasts exceptional build quality. As production has ceased without a direct successor, this model may soon become a collector’s item, making it a smart investment for enthusiasts who appreciate traditional powertrains.

The Case for Combustion Engines

With the automotive industry shifting towards electrification, the demand for vehicles like these is surging. As noted by UK government policy aims to phase out new petrol and diesel sales by 2035, the availability of high-character combustion engines is dwindling. This urgency makes the current market ripe for acquiring these performance icons.

According to Auto Express, the engines in this trio have been recognized for their performance and efficiency, ensuring that enthusiasts can still enjoy the thrill of driving without sacrificing quality.