Spotted's Spottings (2024 France holiday #5 06/10/2024)

18,395 · November 13, 2017

oh my

all the simcas the panhard and anything peugeot 2 3 4 please

roll on easter

12,885 · November 14, 2017

Is this one I also saw essentially the same thing?

Renault/Berliet Bus by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Should be possible to update this thread more often from now on, thanks to a fibre broadband upgrade. Making the most of it......

Dordogne/Lot Valley > Charentes Maritime

Honda Prelude 4ws 2.0i-16 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This was round the back of a Renault garage.

1994 Fiat Panda 900ie by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

A fair few Pandas still in use. The petit prix in this instance was 1400 euros. It had only done 46,000 kms. This was the garage where I saw a Beta last year - it was still there.

Mercury Meteor by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

A relatively obscure model I believe.

Mazda 626 GLX by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Like Rob, but more dented.

Mercedes 508D by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Similar to the Majorette model I've had since I was 10 (i.e. a long time ago).

Renault 9 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

In the same town as the Mercedes, Mazda and Mercury - the sort of random place somewhat off the tourist trail which I reckon would have been worth a thorough investigation.

Citroen Dyane by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I can't show the photo of the green/black one, the wheeltrim and painted wheel combo is just too unpleasant.

Ford Capri Mk1 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Iveco 35-8 Motorhome by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I took a carefully planned detour to find what looked like a very good scrapyard. Unfortunately since the Streetview car drove past it'd been turned into a high turnover metal yard, but at least these two were the reward for my efforts.

Peugeot 305 SRD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Peugeot 305 GR Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Saw these two within a few minutes of each other. The estate overtook us at a fair old lick.

Nissan 200SX (S13) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Immaculate!

More to follow, at some point.

12,885 · November 16, 2017

Onwards, with stuff from in and around a week in Charante-Maritime (a bit south of La Rochelle on the west coast).

Toyota Land Cruiser by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Some years I've seen a few of these, but 2017 wasn't so good in that regard.

Peugeot 205 Cabriolet by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Good shot taken by son SL of this 205 driving along a service road next to us on the main drag.

1988 Volvo 780 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I didn't realise 780s were sold in France. Possibly another one behind it?

Triumph TR6 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Usually see an old Triumph or two each year.

1977 Peugeot 104 GL6 (1124cc) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Best shot I could get of this bright little thing.

Citroen Mehari by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Loads of these around, and they're not cheap either.One or two more interesting things of this type to come.

1987 Peugeot 305 (1290 euros) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Decent value in France at that price?

Fordson Tractor (and horn player) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

On the way home I treated the family to a stop-off at a tractor show. Earlier in the day we'd seen this dapper chap standing in the middle of a roundabout, which was mildly surreal.

Kubota B7000 4wd Tractor by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

IH 956 XL 4wd Tractor by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Mystery Agricultural Device: Enjambeur by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

The last one looked distinctly dangerous but it is apparently a real thing.

Renault 10 Major by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1990 Peugeot 505 Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Citroen DS DSuper by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Nissan Patrol SWB (260) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Fiat Fiorino by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Ford Escort Ghia by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Renault 19 Phase 2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

As to be hoped at this sort of event, there was some decent stuff that local visitors had turned-up in. Super-shiny 19!

10,164 · November 17, 2017

Always good to see Euro stuff on this thread, as I rarely/never see such stuff nowadays. I've said it before but seriously, how have silver, grey, black and white become the default shades of car paint? Surely, the owners of the charcoal coloured cars surrounding that fantastically orange 104 stop and have a little think....

That 205 is a great shot, though I suppose I am biased (ours is being lent out to family at the moment and I think I miss it more than I thought). I Like how you've overcome the unusual/dull connotations that is car spotting and have got the whole family involved. I'm guessing it's a gradual erosion of their disapproving tendencies over the years, rather than out and out enthusiasm but it's commendable, nonetheless!

57,955 · November 17, 2017

The first photo in Tuesday's post is also a Berliet design I think, but it's the "coach" version rather than the "bus" version, so not quite the same. There were still a few of them in use on shorter-distance National Express-type routes when we moved to France in the mid '90s.

12,885 · November 17, 2017

I Like how you've overcome the unusual/dull connotations that is car spotting and have got the whole family involved. I'm guessing it's a gradual erosion of their disapproving tendencies over the years, rather than out and out enthusiasm but it's commendable, nonetheless!

They do put up with a lot, including obscure detours and cross-country routes that take us far longer to get from A-B, me wandering off in supermarket car parks, stopping at slightly unsavoury places etc. That being said, I do have a self-imposed limit and sometimes I'll sacrifice a stop in the hope that there might be something better a bit later on.

That may be why I got let out on a few solo missions this year, which turned out to be suitably productive....

Peugeot 205 Rallye by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Peugeot 305 Van by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Peugeot 204 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

All Peugeots, all white. But different. I got a photo of the 204 last year, pleasing to see it still sat there festering away. Saw another 205 Rallye a day or two later.

Opel Corsa LS by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I saw a rather funky modified RWD Kadett in this car park last year. This year it provided me with more Opel content.

Bellier VX 550 L Diesel by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Last year this thing was sat by the road with rather substantial front end damage. I was very surprised to see they'd actually repaired it.

Fiat Tipo DGT by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Very tidy.

Autobianchi Primula Coupe S x2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Autobianchi 111 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1974-77 Alfa Romeo Giulia Nuova Super 1300 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Fiat 127 Moretti Midimaxi by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

More Italian stuff at a classic car garage where they let me nose around. At some point I'll some of the other things I saw there, definitely worth a visit.

Assortment by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Renault 17 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

These were at a different garage which was another repeat visit. They'd moved stuff around, but it was good to see the Rancho was still there. The 17 seems to be an addition (they had several others on the premises).

Toyota Corolla 5dr by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

No 5-door version of this model Corolla for us in the UK.

BMW 2000 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

SAAB Sonett III by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

A couple of non-French obscurities to round-off this selection.

18,395 · November 17, 2017

i hate you

primula lmao

love the 127 mehari rip off

505 and merc truck want *scans leboncoin

'chriiiiiiiiiss............'

12,885 · November 18, 2017

/\ Thanks. Never knowingly seen a Primula before.

Onwards.....

Peugeot J7 Camper by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Curiously-topped J7.

Peugeot J9 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

And its successor. Which was nextdoor to this place....

Peugeot 505 GRD Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

A somewhat grim scene.

Citroen CX Estates x2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Citroen CX 25 RD Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

One CX was seen, necessitating a drive around the block when I then stumbled on the other pair.

Citroen Ami 8 Break by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Makes a change to see one that isn't white or blue (not that any of them are that common).

Peugeot 104 Z 'A Vendre' by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Would've been interesting to see how much they wanted for this one.

Fiat Ducato 14 Hobby 600 Motorhome by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Ford Transit Motorhome by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Both in the same car park - difficult to know if people were living in them or they belonged to holidaymakers. I think there's a topless man in the Transit.

Ligier Optima II Microcar by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Ligier Optima Microcar by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

More spot the headlight donor fun to be had here. Rancho-esque styling on the second one?

Opel Corsa Tropica Beach Car by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Renault Car Systeme JP5 Baja by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Citroen 2CV6 Roadster by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

A quick bit of seafront spotting netted this lot, making a change from the Meharis. The Corsa was a new one to me, and the JP5 is apparently a particularly rare version (I've seen an earlier one on a previous holiday).

Rover Montego by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This seems like a good way to conclude tonight's uploads. It's only a Montego! Mrs SL quickly grabbed a shot as I held up traffic on a roundabout - couldn't miss out on getting a photo.

17,446 · November 18, 2017

They're all good, but that Montego spot is ace, well done Mrs SL!

12,885 · November 21, 2017

Thanks Rob. It was a very unexpected thing to see.

Final part now, Charente-Maritime > Calais over a couple of days, much of it cross-country and finding some pleasingly out-of-the-way places.......

Peugeot 104 GLS by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Citroen Acadiane by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Ford Transit Mk2 Camper by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

All seen at the same supermarket.

VW Santana GX by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Can't recall seeing one in France in recent years. All the family had a go at taking photos of this one.

Renault 11 GTL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Looked just right here, just a shame it had lost its black plate.

Mercedes E-Class W123 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Working W123.

GMC CCKW by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Classy advertisement.

Ford Sierra by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Not a great shot, but weather not conducive to on-the-move spotting.

Renault Alpine GTA V6 Turbo by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Wedding car. Somewhat modified?

VW Passat C by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Seen on the same day as the Santana.

Volvo 240 GL Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Oldest 200-series I can recall seeing.

Peugeot 205 XAD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Good to see one of these.

Lada 112 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Lada 112, in the rain, in an arse-end-of-nowhere town in northern France. I doubt Thomas Cook or whoever would be able to offer me this sort of thing.

Renault 21 'Turbo' by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Some debate on Flickr as to what model this might be. it apparently has the 1-7-litre petrol engine.

Renault Express RN 1.9D by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Can't remember seeing many of these over the years.

Citroen GS Club by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Renault 12 Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This is the sort of stuff that driving around France is all about.

Nissan Prairie 1.8 SGL (M10) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I think this might have been some sort of wedding car. If so, good luck Pascal and Aurelia - I'm sure a brown and gold Prairie gave you a good start to your married life.

Citroen 2CV Cocorico by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Can't remember this version.

Peugeot 403 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

One of the last few spots on French soil, not a bad way to end the holiday.

1991 Rover Maestro 500 City by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

And to finish, one of the first back in the UK. Surely this is a known vehicle?

57,955 · November 21, 2017

Hey, I'd forgotten they sold those Ladas in France. Don't think they were ever very popular though.

France actually did better than we did for Eastern Bloc chod - at various times they sold the Moskvitch Aleko, ZAZ Tavria and Oltcit (albeit badged as a Citroën Axel), none of which we got here.

18,874 · November 22, 2017

They got the Belgian Volga with the Perky/Indenor as well, I believe......Lucky Frogs.

Tremendous spots, Mr Laurel!

12,885 · December 19, 2017

Suitably flattered and inspired by inclusion on the top threads list I thought it was about time I updated it with some non-French holiday stuff......

Oh dear..... by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Shame to see. Very early and incredibly tidy, hopefully the FTP was minor - it has been through an MoT since I saw it, although it's now on SORN so maybe this episode knocked the elderly owner's confidence a bit?.

Honda S-MX 4WD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Like DW, but with more grip.

1991 Ford Granada Scorpio 2.0i by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Looked good from this angle, but the arch on the other side was distinctly crusty.

1984 Honda CB650SC Nighthawk by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Motoshite?

1986 Cadillac Seville 4.1 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Proportions around the back end of these very odd.

1980 Bedford CF 280 Advantura Motorhome by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Semi-regular spot. It seems to turn up locally at a similar time of year.

1982 Citroen Dyane 6 Pickup by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1997 Reliant Robin LX Pickup by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Oddball pickup conversions.

1983 Fiat 126 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Polish import, seen on the day of my Gran's funeral. She was well into her '90s and had been a rather liberal-minded lady so I feel pretty sure she wouldn't have minded.

1992 Toyota Hiace Motorhome 2.4 Diesel by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1985 Vauxhall Cavalier 1.6 Hatch by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1991 Rover Maestro Clubman 1.3 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1988 Porsche 928 S4 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1991 Pontiac Firebird 3.1 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1989 Ferrari Testarossa Koenig Specials by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1990 Mercedes 500SEC by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1991 Toyota Sera by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1993 Lexus LS400 Mk2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1966 Morris Minor 1000 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Everything from the Toyota Motorhome onwards were seen on a quick trip down to Barking between Christmas and New Year. Despite it being a grim and foggy morning Master SL and I were down there for 9am to pick up a load of cheap, collection only magazines so we had plenty of time to cruise the East London/Essex suburbs looking for stuff. There was plenty to see.

1998 Perodua Nippa EX by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Final one seen on the last day of 2016, which seems a suitable point to stop for now. 2017 to follow soon.

29,264 · December 19, 2017

Always enjoy your spots on here and Flickr. Have to say the Testarossa is lovely, even if its only because a photo of one in the wild in the UK is rare!

The Perodua is identical to the example my wife had many years ago, same year as well.

22,044 · December 19, 2017

I love that Maestro photo. Straight out of the mid 90s!

12,885 · December 21, 2017

Thanks!

Onto 2017.......

1967 Hillman Minx 1500 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Traditional New Year's Day garage pilgrimage in the village where I grew up. Now a classic car specialist (where Trigger bought his SD1) so there's usually something interesting to see. This early Arrow was last on the road in '92.

1972 Reliant Rebel 700 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

May well have something to do with the local Reliant specialists?

1990 Ford Escort Bonus 90 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Nearly 12 years after starting this thread and Lidl in the town where I (currently) work still provides me with material.

Sunny and 405 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This place always good too. I had to park the Sunny here when I saw the 405s.

1996 Mazda 626 2.0 GXi by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

If only Mazda had put as much effort into designing the rest of the car as they did this light/tailgate/spoiler arrangement.

1970s CI Sprite Alpine Caravan by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

The sort of thing we holidayed in back in the '70s.

2000 Honda Saber by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Should've put this in the "Cars you never knew existed" thread, as it was a new one to me. JDM I believe, probably bought to the UK by someone in the USAF given where I saw it.

2003 Toyota Will Cypha by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Same probably true of this one.

1989 Rover 213S by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

One of my favourite finds of the year. If anything I think it was worse than it looked, and the MoT was due not long after I saw it so I was sceptical about its future, yet the owner got it sorted despite an extensive failure sheet and it's still T&Ted at the time of writing.

Toyota Land Cruiser J40 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Imports for resale here?

1980 Austin Morris Mini HL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Pleasingly unmolested.

1983 Honda Accord EX Auto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This has probably appeared here before, but it's so nice it's worth seeing again.

2003 Vauxhall Omega 2.2 CD Auto Hearse by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Some parts bin raiding involved in the creation of this one.

1999 Honda Avancier 3.0 V6 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

2002 Honda Mobilio 1.5 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

More JDM oddballs.

1935 Austin Seven Ruby Special by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Basic.

1964 Ferrari 330GT by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Best-ever wire wheels?

'1968' Land Rover SWB 2.0 petrol by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

'1968' Land Rover SWB 2.0 Petrol by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Authentic patina on this thing, probably somewhat older than its plate suggests.

Spartan Kit Car by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I'd seen this in pieces on the back of a trailer a few months beforehand, then it appeared rather vaguely assembled at the local auctions.

1972 Ford Capri 1600 Base by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Not enough of this sort of thing to be seen nowadays.

1991 Toyota Soarer 2.5 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1992 Honda Legend 3.2 Coupe by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Compare and contrast.

1983 Lotus Eclat Excel by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1992 Mazda MX-6 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1973 VW Beetle 1303 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1972 Triumph 2500 PI by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

All the above plus the Soarer and Legend were seen on another magazine collecting trip, this time down in Southend (with thanks to AngryDicky for picking them up for me).

More soon.

8,906 · December 21, 2017

2002 Honda Mobilio 1.5 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Mmmm, boxy Jazz.

6,823 · December 21, 2017

Brilliant photos. Does that Bellier have mk1 Clio front end?

12,885 · December 22, 2017

Mmmm, boxy Jazz.

Looks like it'd be plenty spacious enough inside doesn't it?

Brilliant photos. Does that Bellier have mk1 Clio front end?

Thanks. Certainly Clio lights, it used the rears too:

Bellier VX 550 L Diesel by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

When I saw it with damage in 2016.

This earlier one seen in 2010 also favoured Renault parts:

Bellier 50 XLD100 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

More later.....

6,823 · December 22, 2017

Thats some 5 parts on that one. These wee things are class. Want.

12,885 · December 27, 2017

Continuing with 2017.....

1927(?) Willys-Knight by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Properly old and not really very shite at all.

1991 Volvo 340 GL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

More like it. Last MoT apparently expired in 2010.

1958 Wolseley 1500 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Making good use of the MoT exemption.

1972 Jaguar XJ6 4.2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1965 Jaguar S-Type by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Old Jag's looking good in the spring sunshine.

Skoda 130/136 Rapid by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This garage often seems to have interesting stuff in their yard. My new job will be taking me that way quite regularly so I will try and investigate more thoroughly.

1977 Mercedes 508D Motorhome by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Boxy.

1992 Peugeot 309 GL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Another case of AA to the rescue of one of those rubbish old cars. Happily this one still has T&T.

1991 VW Golf Driver Auto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Very low profile tyres.

1973 Bedford CF Motorhome by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I doubt that spoiler helps its aerodynamics much.

Ford 6600 Tractor by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Good to see things like this still at work.

Ford Transit Mk2 Motorhome by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This was seen in several local laybys over a period of a week or two.

Berkeley Argosy Twelve Caravan by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Apparently of late 1950s vintage. The plate belonged to a long-gone Escort.

1989 Alfa Romeo 75 3.0 V6 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Have seen a couple of other Alfas at this garage over the years, not sure if they all belong to the same person.

1993 Toyota Corolla 1.3 GLi 'Royale' by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I like these because they look like a Camry at the front end. This one seems to be a garage-specific model.

1959 Riley One Point Five by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

A bit of a contrast to that Wolseley. This belongs to my former boss, he prepped it very thoroughly for an event in South Africa back in October which it successfully completed. It was shipped out there by container but he's driving it back overland in 2018.

1987 Mitsubishi Shogun Hardtop 2.6 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Good to see one that's been in the UK from new.

1982 Toyota Starlet 1.3 GL 5dr by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1983 Toyota Starlet 1.3 GL Interior by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I had to stop and have a closer look at this one - luckily I was in the Laurel that day so I had an excuse/justification. Brought back fond memories of both my bronze 5dr Starlet and the Datsun Cherry I had as my first car back in 1988 which had an equally vivid blue interior.

1973 Bristol 411 Series 3 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Not entirely sure about those wheels.

1983 VW Golf 1.8 GTi by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

May have been seen on this thread before (but probably no way of checking as many of the old links are dead). Seemed to be in regular day-to-day use, with 209k on the clock when last tested in late 2016. Now out of MoT, hopefully it's being sorted ready for 2018.

1993 Lancia Dedra 2.0 ie by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Was pleased to see this several times in the summer. Turned out to be a car Bramz7 photographed back in 2014, when it had been off-road since 2010/11.

1990 Citroen BX 1.9 GTi Auto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Combination of GTi spec and auto 'box seemed a bit unusual to me.

1995 Ford Fiesta 1.3 LX CVT by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Another automatic oddity.

1978 Leyland Cars Mini 1000 Pickup by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1980 Volvo 245 GLE by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1974 Rover 3500 Auto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Selection of things seen locally to end this installment. The remainder of 2017 still to come.

12,885 · December 27, 2017

May as well carry on with this - weather's rubbish outside and it'll put off mending the Dyson.

1989 Vauxhall Cavalier 2.0 SRi by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This one apparently still with its original owner.

1993 Ford Sierra 2.0 GT Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Late model, and unusual spec for an estate?

1979 Chevrolet Van 5.7 "Hollywood" by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Not much Hollywood glamour to be seen here.

1985 Toyota Land Cruiser 4.0 Diesel by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

What a Land Cruiser looks like after 10+ years off the road.

Laurels old and new by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1996 Nissan Laurel 2.8D (C34) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I ought to try and track down the owner of this thing. The diesel engine seems to be relatively common in the later Laurels. This generation not my favourite-looking, but it's growing on me each time I see it.

1962 Chevrolet Impala by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Saw this around a few times during the summer.

1978 Dodge Hi-Line Tipper by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1980 Claas Combine Harvester by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I believe these are both operated by the same farm - the lorry only ever appears at harvest time (and the combine, obviously). Saw them on the same day when I was in the period-correct Laurel.

Back to the 1990s - Calibra and 106 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Seems like no time since these were common cars I'd have taken no interest in.

1997 Mazda Xedos 9 2.5 V6 Auto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1967 Goggomobil (300cc) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Not great photos, but my dashcam has allowed me to capture things that would otherwise just be a memory in my head. The Xedos was seen quite a few times, appears to have been resurrected after a bit of time off-road.

1990 Honda Civic Shuttle 1.4 GL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Very rare to see these standard nowadays.

1988 Nissan Sunny 1.3 LS (N13) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Like me, but slower and with less doors. I tried to engage the elderly owner in conversation but this didn't work out terribly well as he was profoundly deaf (or maybe he was just pretending to be, to avoid talking to a random stranger in a car park saying he'd got one similar?).

1985 Citroen 2CV6 Special Pickup by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Saw this one at a show some years ago. I presume it belongs to one of the local Citroen specialists.

1935 Armstrong Siddeley by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Always worth having the camera to hand when visiting the local auctions.

1971 Morris Minor Traveller by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1980s condition.

1970 Mercedes 220 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I liked this, but priced somewhat optimistically?

1976 Volvo 245 DL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

There does seem to be a concentration of older Volvos locally. Perhaps because we had a very long-serving dealer nearby?

1987 Renault 5 TL Rio 1.1 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

My local garage picked this one up. The owner was talking about getting it back on the road for his teenage daughter, not sure if this is in hand (last MoT still listed as expiring in 2008).

1989 Nissan Micra 1.0 GSX (K10) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Difficult to believe that this truly went in as 'scrappage' against a new VW.

1990 Lexus LS400 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Would love an early one someday. But I'd make sure I fitted the wheels on the correct side.....

1977 Mercedes 508D Motorhome by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1991 Ford Granada 2.0i Ghia Auto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1983 Ford Granada 2.8 Dorchester Limousine by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Lexus IS200 Banger 516 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Toyota Supra Banger 141 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

LS400 and these all seen at the Banger World Final.

1997 Lincoln Continental 4.6 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1993 BMW 525iX SE Touring Auto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1996 Subaru Impreza GL Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1987 Renault Trafic T1300 LWB 2.1D by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1966 Morris Minor by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1989 SAAB 900i 16v 2dr by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This lot all from a few days away in the Peak District. Noticeable that there was much less to be seen up that way, but.....

1980 Volvo 244 DL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Did see this en-route. In an unusual move, it's a case of an older Volvo which appears to have moved south from Scotland. Sadly I wasn't in the Laurel as it would have made for a good photo opportunity. By way of contrast, the Volvo would have been more expensive new in 1980 than the Datsun.

1982 Ford Cortina 1.6 Crusader by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

With the job change it's likely that this will be my last ever Lidl spot (at this store anyway). Seems like a good way to finish.

1996 Toyota Celica 2.0 GT Cabriolet by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Interesting alternative to an MX-5?

1999 Rover 200 BRM by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Possibly the first one I've photographed.

2007 Hyundai Grandeur V6 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

First one I can even recall seeing.

Ford Transit Mk2 (Dutch?) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Limited time out and about in daylight hours meant that the finds inevitably get scarcer towards the end of the year but this was a satisfying thing to see. I think I saw it driving around on Dutch plates earlier in the year and it's possibly an ex-Red Cross (German?) ambulance of some sort.

Up-to-date at last. Back to scanning old photos and postcards for the rest of the winter.

10,625 · December 27, 2017

Top spots as always Nigel. Seems weird to now recognise quite a few of those locations (if not any of the cars, apart from the scrappage Micra). The Micra is worse than it looks; the sills and arches are fairly rotten.

I haven't seen much in the way of tat since I've been up there, but I did see a Renault 20 not long ago, in Diss Morrisons, which made up for it!

9,004 · December 27, 2017

That Sierra estate has the bonnet and grille from a Sapphire.

5,295 · December 31, 2017

That transit looks odd with the single axle at the back.

January 1, 2018

1991 Pontiac Firebird 3.1 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Some excellent spots there, particularly the 80s tat - Cavalier and Accord.

The Firebird had me scratching my head as 3rd gen Firebirds are one of my specialist spotting subjects. This one can't be a 91 model due to the bumpers. The lack of central stop light on the spoiler (and the design of spoiler) makes it pre-86 model year. The wheel trims were common in all-black on 83 and 84 Transams. If I had to place a bet I'd say this was an 83 or 84 Transam with the 5.0 V8 although someone might have dressed up a base model Firebird.

12,885 · October 24, 2018

I haven't seen much in the way of tat since I've been up there, but I did see a Renault 20 not long ago, in Diss Morrisons, which made up for it!

I think I've seen that one a couple of times this summer. Brown A-reg? The local 20-in-a-bush was cleared away some years ago.

That transit looks odd with the single axle at the back.

May have seen that one out and about since my original photo.

Got some domestic 2018 stuff to come, but for now I'll update with this year's French holiday. A week down south plus a good circular route with overnight stops there and back (roughly anti-clockwise either side of Paris).

Day 1-2 Home > Dieppe > Versailles > Orleans

1990 Nissan Figaro by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Ford Fiesta Mk1 bodyshell by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Couple of oddities seen on the way down to Newhaven. Not sure about the Fiesta's new running gear.

1990 Opel Corsa Calypso by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

First French spot. There was an Estafette trundling around Dieppe, but as it was dark and we were on the move I can only live with the memory of its yellow headlights.

1985 Mini 1000 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Ventilated bootlid option.

Renault Juvaquatre by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I only ever seem to see these as semi-mobile billboards.

1972 Renault Estafette by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This made up for missing the Estafette at Dieppe.

1982 Mini 1000 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Good to see on 10" wheels.

1970 Renault 4 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Still lots of 1980s 4s knocking around, but I think this was the oldest I saw by some way.

1991 Honda Civic 1.6i-16 x2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Someone here liked their modified Japanese cars. MX-5 was also lowered and sat on wide wheels and stretched tyres.

1987 Toyota Land Cruiser LX 2.4 TD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Lots of Land Cruisers seen this year.

Twingo twins and 406 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Typical small-town scene.

1989 Ford Sierra 2.0 GT by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Looked tidy. No Mk1s seen this year.

Citroen 2CV6 and Renault 4 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Renault Fuego by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Why I always slow down at rural French garages.

Smalltown Renault garage by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Good to see places like this still going. Assuming it's a long-time dealer, imagine the stuff that would have been in that showroom over the years.

After a mention on here by Mr & Mrs Six-Cylinder, I was intrigued by the Aerotrain concept and planned our route so I could stop and take a look for myself. Much of the concrete track still remains, running parallel to the D2020 through the flat countryside down to Orleans. In the 1970s the prototype I80 apparently ran along here at 250mph, which must have been somewhat awe-inspiring to see hurtling along on the elevated track (an inverted T-section of reinforced concrete). Very peaceful now though, as we'd been driving for a while I had a snooze....

Toyota Camry 2.4i VVT-i by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Dutch holidaymakers with discerning taste.

Orleans achieved with no autoroute travel and the usual rain encountered in northern France. Pushing on southwards in the next installment.

12,885 · November 10, 2018

Second attempt at this update - I managed to get everything pretty much ready to go last time then closed the wrong tab.......

Day 3 Orleans > Le Puy en Velay(ish)

Pushing on southwards, sadly spending too much time on the autoroute but I made the most of the bits before and after that.

196? Ford Mustang by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Belonged to other guests at the hotel we stayed at.

1993 Peugeot 309 1.7TD GRX by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This conveniently parked-up just as we were leaving. Bit of a view of the main square in Orleans in the background, nice place.

Peugeot J7 Camping Car by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I've a feeling someone may have been in this when I took my photo. I wonder if it's the case that older campers randomly parked-up in French towns are actually someone's living accommodation.

1998 Honda Accord 2.2i by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Hondas seem to be more common than other comparable Japanese makes.

1989 Honda/Acura Legend 2.7 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1989 Honda/Acura Legend 2.7 + Concerto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Very pleased to see this. Initially I drove past the garage, but several miles down the road I got the feeling that I'd missed out on something quite special so I turned around and went back for a better look - glad I did. Consensus of opinion on Flickr seems to be that it's a North American Acura import. Bonus late Concerto, just a rebadged R8?

Mercedes W114/W115(?) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This was at the same place. I imagine there would have been more stuff in the trees and out the back.

1991 Citroen BX Image by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1990 Renault 5 TR by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Black platers at a small town supermarket. Where I also got a glimpse of this......

Mystery Car Competition - Renault 8 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Seriously, this is the best photo I got of it. I heard it when I was looking at the BX, and hoped it would pull into the supermarket, but it drove by and I muffed-up by trying to zoom in too much.

1987 Renault 5 Five by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Another 5 on black plates.

Tesserault Caravan by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Notin Caravan by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

A good reason not to drive on autoroutes - on some 200 miles of the A71 these were the only things I saw of any interest. Both needed to be towed by far more appropriate cars.

1989 Lancia Delta HF 4WD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

That's better, driving on proper roads and seeing stuff like this.

2000 Fiat Panda Young by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1993 Seat Toledo Friend by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Randomly named 'special' editions.

1991 VW Polo by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Zoom worked out OK this time.

2000 Nissan Almera 1.4 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Sill ends looked a little tender.

2006 Lada Niva by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1988 Renault 11 GTD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Final ones for day 3, seen just around the corner from where we stayed the night. Still a good number of Nivas out in the rural/hilly areas.

1,741 · November 10, 2018

Excellent, a Lot of the shots in France remind me of when I was a kid traveling on holiday in France. The vehicle parc was so different in the 1970's France to 1970's UK.

Nowadays everything is silver grey and apart from the steering wheel, maybe the odd badge, sometimes a car park could be anywhere in Europe.

19,743 · November 10, 2018

The Concerto is indeed a rebadged R8, instead of fitting the XUD to Concertos they badged Rover 218 diesels as Hondas.

Great thread, I've just caught up on a year's worth.

Spotted's Spottings (2024 France holiday #5 06/10/2024)

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