thanks for the reply's guys. I think its best to hear exactly what the actual owners think of the car rather than the media. As mentioned above the car hasnt really taken off to any great extent here in the Uk which hopefully will work in my favour when I start haggling at the garage. I must admit I do prefer stuyle over substance which is probably why the crossfire is being considered lol.

Ive made an appointment to view/test drive one on Sat (to give me an idea whetehr the car should be on the shortlist). Its gun metal gery colour, 6 speed manual cupe with under 30k on the clock (black leather). With it being from a car supermarket the cost is higher than a private sale, at £10,495 (before negotiations) but you do get a 2 year parts and labour guarantee. Oh I almost forgot to add its a 2004 model.

As a final note, the media here seem to indicate that the engine is best suited to the automatic gearbox, whilst I have no prefernece over the manual or automatic, I would like views from owners of both drivetrains.

Thanks