Three great drives for a cool car around Canberra

If I’ve got a few hours to spare, there are few things I enjoy more than a long drive in the country.

The chance to listen to some cool tunes on blast, breathe the fresh air and see some different sights – for me, it’s the perfect way to clear my head and hit the reset button.

One of the many benefits of living in Canberra – if you love to drive – is that there are any number of great drives you can take in and around the region, whether you have a day to spare or just a few hours.

Recently, and just in time for the warmer weather, I had the chance to test drive the incredible Alfa Romeo 4C. I hadn’t driven one before, but as soon as I laid eyes on it, I was smitten.

As you would expect from the iconic Italian marque, it is a work of art to look at and ridiculously fun to drive.

So with the top down, a long weekend to enjoy and a car-loving friend in town, it was the perfect chance to seek out some fun local drives.

Read more: https://the-riotact.com/three-great-drives-for-a-cool-car-around-canberra/337229

What driving a sports car has taught me

After driving a series of very sensible cars, columnist Jane Speechley shares what she’s learned since stepping behind the wheel of the spirited and nimble Toyota 86.

The car you choose to drive says a lot about you, and arguably, a sports car makes a stronger statement than most. With impressive growth in the sports car segment (September VFACTS figures show sales are up 36% to 2,725 vehicles), it’s a statement that’s being made by a growing number of drivers.

In my last column, I wrote about my history with cars and how I came to purchase my current vehicle, a Toyota 86. With just over three years now behind the wheel of my first sports car, there’s a lot I’ve learned.

Read more at https://practicalmotoring.com.au/voices/driving-sports-car-taught/

The long and winding road to my Toyota 86

Image courtesy of Jay Bellchambers

Our new columnist, Jane Speechley, tells us about her history with cars and why she bought a sports car.

There are two early experiences that have particularly shaped my attitude towards cars.

To begin with, there was my first car, which is now (sentimentally) referred to as the Hyundai Deathtrap. A well-priced Excel hatchback from a seemingly well-established dealership, I thought I was making a sensible choice.

A little young and naïve, I didn’t notice the paint colour inside the engine bay was different to the exterior. Or that the white smoke coming from the exhaust wasn’t just due to the cold weather.

Yes, yes, I know – did I mention I was young and naïve?

Read more at https://practicalmotoring.com.au/voices/long-winding-road-toyota-86/