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

17,192 · November 10, 2018

Hey, I saw that same Estafette at Versailles back in 2015 (but not in 2017 when I was last there)!

12,885 · 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.

Yes, not many modern cars now they get there that we don't see in the UK.

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.

Thanks, and well done for getting through that.

12,885 · November 10, 2018

Hey, I saw that same Estafette at Versailles back in 2015 (but not in 2017 when I was last there)!
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Nice one! Not the first time we've got photos of the same thing.

Day 4 Le Puy en Velay > The Luberon

Scrapyard Selection 1 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Scrapyard Selection 2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Scrapyard Selection 3 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This road was a bit frustratingly busy and slow, but happily it gave my son the chance to fire off some random shots of this scrapyard we crawled past which turned out to have some good content.

199? Rover 200-Series Cabriolet by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Would have been one for Cars and Girls thread.

1978 Mercedes L508D by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Ended up seeing a few of these, of varying nationalities.

2000 Fiat Palio 1.7TD 70 Weekend by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Saw one or two other Palios, I was surprised at how late this one was.

Peugeot J7 Pizza Van by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Thanks to daughter SL for seeing this one. They bring the misery my stops sometimes cause upon themselves.......

Citroen Ami and Triumph Spitfire by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Citroen Ami, 2CV and H-Van + Renault 4 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Citroen H-Van by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Citroen CX and Visa by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Peugeot 504 Pickup by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

An interesting variety to ponder here. Not sure if it was a commercial enterprise or just someone's hoard.

1979 Mercedes 280S by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This had presence. Can't imagine it was a particularly economical down from NL-land though.

1985 Renault 4 F4 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Could only have been bettered if the driver was wearing a beret. As well as seeing stuff like this in use it's the classic sound they make that's so distinctive.

Renault Fuego GTS by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Didn't look like it had gone anywhere for a while, yet still surprisingly solid and complete. I suppose that's benefit of the southern climate?

In and around the Luberon to come.

5,295 · November 10, 2018

Haven't seen that front light arrangement on the 504 before.

12,885 · November 10, 2018

Haven't seen that front light arrangement on the 504 before.

First one I seem to have got a photo of, then I saw another one with round lights the next day. I think we got them in the UK as well, pretty sure I have a brochure.

12,885 · November 11, 2018

Days 4-6 In and around The Luberon Pt1.

We hadn't been this far south in recent years, but on looking back at old photo albums it turns out we did pass through this area back in 1996 when we did a big tour of France in our Acclaim. Very nice area, not as busy as I'd feared and a reasonable amount of old stuff still to be seen.......

Jaguar E-Type by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Classy way to cruise around the area on a sunny Sunday morning.

Lancia Dedra TD LE by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Ditto.

1984 Ford Transit by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Peugeot J9 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1994 Nissan Sunny Van by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1981 Peugeot 504 Pickup by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Peugeot J7 Pizza Van by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Visited a hot and busy market, but I spent most of my time walking outside the aisles so I could get photos of the old crocks the traders were using. There was another Transit Mk2.5 there.

1985 Honda Civic Shuttle by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Another older Honda, I think the first one of these I've seen in France.

1981-84 Renault 18 Turbo by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Ooh la la!

1998 Citroen C15D Dropside by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Lots of C15s still at work. This one a little more unusual.

Citroen Belphegor + ACL Renault Rodeo by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Two in one. I didn't notice the Rodeo at the time I took this photo.

1977 Renault 6 TL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

A real, live 6, in beige. I'd actually stopped to take a photo of a 403 pickup that was here, but I forgot about that when I saw this one.

3,986 · November 16, 2018

Great spots!! Love that Fuego, it would be nice if someone took pity on it and brought it back to life - early 80s Renaults can't be that difficult to fix, can they?

12,885 · November 17, 2018

Great spots!! Love that Fuego, it would be nice if someone took pity on it and brought it back to life - early 80s Renaults can't be that difficult to fix, can they?

Thanks Craig. That second Fuego does look intact, combine it with stuff off the first one I saw and I reckon there's a viable project.....

Days 7-12 In and around The Luberon Pt2

1987 Renault 4 F4 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Mid-repair. Did see a few of these this year.

1990 Renault 4 TL Savane by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Very tidy. This was at a tabletop/boot sale, which meant lots of cars were in town parked-up in every possible place.

Lots of purchasing opportunities, I could have got a lot more. The Norev Simca has been re-homed since I got back......

1987 Peugeot 309 1.3 GR by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Didn't see many pre-facelift 309s.

1989 Fiat Fiorino by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Good to see one with the Mk1 Uno-style front end.

1969 Mercedes 280 SL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This has got about a bit - built in Germany, exported to America, imported to the UK and seen by me somewhere in France.

198? Opel Kadett by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Could only have been better if it was the saloon model.

1985 Peugeot 104 GLS by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I think this was the only 104 seen, great to find just parked in a street and looking like it's in use.

1980 Citroen Dyane by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Came out well for something taken by Mrs SL when we were on the move, with one of the local hilltop towns giving it a bit of context.

Mercedes G-Wagen by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Went up and down Mont Ventoux. Lunar is probably an over-used description of what it's like at the top, but it really is like that (obviously without me having visited the moon to offer a truly accurate comparison). What should have been one of the most capable vehicles there appeared to be struggling.

2018 Renault Alpine x2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

First time for me seeing any of these. They sounded good blasting up the mountain.

McCormick Farmall Tractor by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Lots of older agricultural stuff still around.

Renault 4 F4 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Another F4.

1978 Citroen 2CV6 Special by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Good to see and hear on the move. I didn't realise they offered a version without the rearmost windows this late on.

Mercedes L508D(?) Camper by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

And another one of these old beasts.

1994 Renault 21 Alize 2.1 TD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Most people concentrate on getting photos of the abbey with its field of lavender in the foreground, I found a more interesting viewpoint.

1986 Honda Prelude + Renault 4 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Interesting to think both date from 1986, something of a contrast. The Prelude was sadly a bit knackered.

1989 Volvo 740 GLE 2.0 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

One model that's rarer in France than the UK?

Renault Dauphine by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

In the weeds/out to pasture etc.

1973 Citroen 2CV Van by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Another supermarket visit, another spotting opportunity.

Stuff seen on the four-day journey home to come.

12,885 · November 25, 2018

Now on the way home. Spread the journey out over a few days and took the opportunity to visit places that we wouldn't normally go to or spend a whole week at.

Day 12 Luberon > Montgenevre (Alps)

Lots seen as we didn't use autoroutes at all, not that there would have been many opportunities for it anyway......

1985 Citroen Visa 14 TRS by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1980 Dodge Ramcharger 5.2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1983 Peugeot J9 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1991 Range Rover 2.5 TD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

These were all seen in the same village. There were times when the family wondered if we were going to get anywhere, but luckily it was a scenic place so they had a good view while they were waiting.

1989 Fiat Panda 4x4 Val D'Isere by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1989 Renault 25 2.1 TD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Saviem Goelette SG2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1981-85 Renault 18 Turbo by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Rural Garage Assortment by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Important to slow down and be prepared to stop at garages out in the countryside. Sunday a particularly good day as they're going to be closed (Junkman would doubtless have something to say about this).

1992 Honda Concerto 1.5i by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Proper Concerto.

1986 Jeep Cherokee 2.1 TD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Apparently a Renault engine in this one.

1987 Opel Corsa 1.0 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Very low-spec. Good that the owner hasn't been tempted to jazz it up with some wheeltrims and hide those styled steels.

1988 Peugeot 505 GRD Ambulance by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Had to turn round and go back for this. one. Presumably now in use as a capacious estate/people carrier or small camper.

1983 Mazda E1600 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Whoa! Thought this was a Hiace when I glimpsed the cab, but was extra pleased to find it was one of these. Have seen just one panel van version in France a few years ago. Odd wheels make sense in giving it a low floor, but do they carry two spares? I vaguely recall the odd van in the UK back in the '80s, but they were never common and I don't think we got this dropside version at all.

Remains of a Car Show by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1966 Fiat 500 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1962 Simca 1000 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1976 Simca 1000 SRT78 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1968 Renault 10 (Type 1190) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1983 Talbot Samba Cabriolet by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Semi-achieved my aim of stumbling across a French car show. Not completely fulfilled, as it'd finished an hour or two before finding it so must stuff had gone, but I had a pleasant few minutes looking at these stragglers. What had I missed? What sort of show only takes place on a summer Sunday morning and finishes by 12.30?

1976 ACL Renault Rodeo by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This was in the same village, maybe it had also been at the show? Rodeos much less common than Meharis, pleasing to see an early one.

1991 Mitubishi Pajero 2.5 TD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Funky graphics.

Mystery Small Car by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Any thoughts on this one?

Fiat Palio, Renault 11, Citroen BX and Datsun Patrol by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This lot were in the same yard.

Talbot 1510 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Amazing what I managed to find in just one day. This was sitting rather forlornly besides a closed-up garage, but it looked pretty complete and unmolested.

Lancia Delta HF Integrale by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Finally got to Montgenevre, which is next to the French-Italian border. It was a sunny Sunday and it seemed like a few Italians were visiting town.

Fiat Panda by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Renault 4 TL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Popped over the border for pizza, made sure I found something to photograph.

1986 Suzuki SJ by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Later ones not uncommon, but it was good to find this 1980s example. It was with another Corsa.

1998 Toyota Land Cruiser 4.2 Diesel by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

The local council had a couple of these working in the town.

A fruitful day.

4,838 · November 25, 2018

Excellent spottage, yes the Volvo 740 was a rare beast in France, I recall having to go to a Volvo truck dealer to get a part for mine back in the day.

Renault 4 seem to be a lot more common than 2CV on the road nowadays.

12,885 · December 1, 2018

Excellent spottage, yes the Volvo 740 was a rare beast in France, I recall having to go to a Volvo truck dealer to get a part for mine back in the day.
Renault 4 seem to be a lot more common than 2CV on the road nowadays.

Ta. Yes, 4s definitely more common than 2CV in my experience.

Day 13 Montgenevre > Annecy

Living in East Anglia we don't see many mountains, so it was good to see a bit of topography. Frejus tunnel would have been the more direct route to get north of Montgenevre, but we headed a but further into Italy and went on this SS25/D1006 route instead:

1991 Mercedes Unimog 1200 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Confronted by this as we left town. A bit OTT for watering the flowers, but probably of more use come winter.

Toyota Land Cruiser by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Usually see a few of these in France, but not something I'd expected to find in Italy.

1974 Steyr Puch Pinzgauer 712 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Hardcore camper, classic colour scheme.

1984 Toyota Land Cruiser by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1980 Toyota Land Cruiser by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Toyota Land Cruisers by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This lot were heading up into the mountains. Black one somewhat non-standard.

1960 Renault 4CV by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Tres jolie. My camera does some weird double/multiple exposure thing sometimes, so that's probably the same bird twice.

1990 Subaru Justy by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Unexpected find, but probably a handy thing to have in this area. Was possibly connected with the garage that had this lot......

Fiat 600 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1982 Autobianchi A112 Elite by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1963 Fiat 1100 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1982 Ford Capri 2.3 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1982 Fiat 126 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Peugeot 604 V6 SL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Thanks to daughter SL for seeing this place, well worth turning back and stopping at. A fair bit of their stock appeared to be Italian imports (the border not being very far away).

Mercedes L508D by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Yet another one.

1989 Fiat Uno by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Only Uno I can recall seeing.

1976 Renault Estafette and 1986 Mercedes 209 Hymermobil Camping Cars by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

11k for the Mercedes?!

1968 Buick Riviera by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Chevrolet Truck by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1986 Ford Transit Breakdown Truck by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

These all at another garage near Annecy.

Suzuki LJ80 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Being driven by Oddjob?

1991 Renault 25 2.0 GTS by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Just up the road from our hotel. Saw it drive by later on.

1979 Chevrolet Van by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I think the roof panel had been cut off and a piece of tarp clipped-on.

1978 Citroen H-Van by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Coming to a town square and selling crepes/coffee near you soon.

Don't worry, this is nearly at an end. Final installment to follow.

3,986 · December 1, 2018

Great photos as always SL. I must say I don't think I've ever seen a Capri 2.3.

57,955 · December 1, 2018

How much was the maroon A112 up for, out of curiosity? I've always wanted to try one of those but never managed to nab one yet (my Y10 has Autobianchi badging on the tailgate but that doesn't really count), but they seem to be rising in value rather rapidly from what I've seen on Leboncoin.

12,885 · December 15, 2018

Great photos as always SL. I must say I don't think I've ever seen a Capri 2.3.

Thanks. I assume Europe had carb-fed 2.8s when we got the 3-litre Essex V6?

How much was the maroon A112 up for, out of curiosity? I've always wanted to try one of those but never managed to nab one yet (my Y10 has Autobianchi badging on the tailgate but that doesn't really count), but they seem to be rising in value rather rapidly from what I've seen on Leboncoin.

Somewhere around 4000 Euros? I can't exactly remember, I could be making that up.....

Day 14: Annecy > Troyes(ish)

On the way home now, but still trying to make the most of the non-autoroute roads.

1982 Ford Transit Mk2 Baillou Camping Car by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Quite tidy, but again a possibility there was someone living in it.

Peugeot 309 remains by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Peugeot 309 x2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Looks like a 309 fancier lived here.

1984 Renault 5 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Only original 5 I remember seeing, compare and contrast with its modern descendant alongside it.

Garage/Scrapyard Assortment by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Peugeot 404 Pickup by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1988 Ford Fiesta 1.1 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1982 Matra Murena 2.2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

These were all at the same place out in the countryside.

1987 Toyota Dyna Diesel by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1987 Citroen CX 2.5 TD Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Even the autoroute stretch was productive, getting these shots kept the kids occupied.

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5 TD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

But better to be back on small roads in the countryside again.

Peugeot 203 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Supermarkets usually good, but don't often see this sort of thing.

Citroen DS by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

There was also an Ami Break at this place, but a barking dog and inquisitive farmer meant I couldn't hang around and take more photos.

1964 Renault Voltigeur by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I hadn't heard of the Voltigeur before, apparently it's a lighter weight version of the Goelette.

1991 Citroen ZX 1.4 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Don't often see a ZX on black plates.

Citroen Visa by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Autoshite exemplified.

1982 Citroen 2CV6 Special by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

We stayed at a B&B near Troyes, they had this available as part of a deal for a weekend break.

Day 15: Troyes > Calais > Home

Renault Estafette by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Another old Renault van.

1987 Iveco 35.8 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Another one from the occupants of the back seat. Didn't realise these round headlight models were made as late as '87.

1988 Nissan Patrol 3.3 TD and LuAZ by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

At a 4x4 specialists. I needed guidance on Flickr as to the ID of the LuAZ.

1991 Ford Fiesta 1.1 Fun by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

The epitome of fun.

Pontiac Firebird by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

On their way home to Luxland.

That's it for France, but on the way back to Norfolk:

Lada Niva by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

From Greece, quite a journey in a Niva?

1987 Range Rover by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

In Essex, on its final journey to a field gateway?

The end.

12,885 · April 14, 2019

Time for an annual review of the non-holiday finds. Long-gone are the days when I could manage a weekly update.

Rover Montego Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1989 Bedford Midi 2.0 Petrol by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

My job change at the beginning of 2018 has resulted in me finding a lot less stuff during the week, but this pair were seen just around the corner from the office.

1971 Triumph 2.5 PI Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Very nice - always liked the 2000/2500 Mk2 and the estates are particularly classy.

1986 Daihatsu Charade CX Daimatic by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Just about got a shot of this one up the length of a high street. Sadly it appears to have been scrapped since then (the car that is, not the street).

1995 Mazda MX-3 V6 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Saw this in a Mazda showroom when I was hunting for a new daily driver last year.

1993 Toyota Camry 2.2 GL Auto Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Yay! I made contact with the owner and he bought some bits off me. Apparently his third Camry. Appears to have gone onto SORN in the meantime.

1992 Citroen BX19 TGD Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Saw this in use as someone's daily a few times last autumn, but it's another one that's been put on SORN since.

1986 Talbot Samba Style (954cc) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1990 Nissan Cabstar Diesel (F22) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1996 Toyota Camry 2.2 (JDM) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1984/85 Ford Granada Mk2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Poor quality dashcam shots, but all seen in just one weekday afternoon drive across Norfolk.

1993 Peugeot 205 XRAD GL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Ouch. I feared the worst for this one, but.....

1993 Peugeot 205 XRAD GL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

It survives! This shot from earlier today.

1993 Nissan Sunny 1.4L 5dr (N14) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Don't see many of this generation around nowadays, they're not immune to rot. Happily this one still has T&T - I saw it on the move since my photo with the expected elderly owner.

Better upload this lot before I do something silly. Another batch to come shortly.....

3,986 · April 14, 2019

Great update SL! I saw a Sunny of that era this week and thought it had been a while since I had seen one, though there is still the odd van around here too.

That 205 is heroic! Well done to whoever put the effort into resuscitating it.

12,885 · April 14, 2019

Onwards.....

1989 BMW 520i Auto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I'd seen this previously on the forecourt of a local dealer.

1991 BMW 318i Auto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

An early one.

1989 Fiat Uno 45S Eleganza by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

A bit of a survivor here. Passed another Mot just last month, predictably with some attention to corrosion-related failure items.

1995 Daihatsu Sportrak ELXi by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Somewhat battered. Given how close it was the North Sea I suspect it had pretty much disintegrated within a week or two.

1986 Citroen C35 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I suspect this one was in use by an antiques/retro/craft stall holder, but it could be just another trendy food van by now.

1995 Vauxhall Cavalier 1.8 Envoy Auto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Mean and moody night time shot.

1989 Bentley Eight by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Imposing.

1969 Morris Mini 1000 MkII by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1967 Riley Elf MkII by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Similar, but different.

1992 Ford Sierra Sapphire Azura by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1993 Renault 5 1.4 Campus Prima by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Funny how quite a few of the older cars I see in regular use are K-reg.

1971 BMW 2002 Tii by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1965 Singer Chamois by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1973 VW Beetle 1300 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Some 'proper' old cars.

1980 Ford Capri 2.0 GL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Timewarp condition here.

1980 Ford Capri 2.0GL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Sobering to think that as recently as 2013 it looked like this.

1986 Austin Metro 1.0 City by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Low miles on this one, but it hasn't been put back on the road since my photo.

1992 Citroen BX 19 TGD Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Another white estate.

1982 Toyota Land Cruiser by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Chunky! Been local from new, I think I saw it tucked away on a nearby farm a few years ago.

1993 Reliant Robin LX and 1987 Rialto GLS Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Charity rally participants?

1992 Audi 100E 2.3 Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1993 Citroen ZX Aura 1.9 TD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

More K-reg dailies. I had a chat with the Audi's owner, it's done about 275k and his wife has a B-reg Manta on the driveway.

1977 International Harvester 574(?) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Fun fact - the white submersible Esprit in The Spy Who Loved Me was registered PPW306R (not something I'd have known until I happened to watch an episode of American Restoration this afternoon).

Alfa Romeo Giulia 1300 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Another of my rubbish dashcam screen grabs.

1989 Peugeot 405 GRD Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

One of the oldest 405s I can recall seeing for a while.

1973 Reliant Scimitar GTE by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Strangely small spoiler.

1972 Citroen H-Van by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1977 Citroen 2CV Van by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1991 Renault 5 Campus by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

These were appropriately seen not long before my French holiday. Too late for the H-van to avoid the usual fate.

Post-holiday stuff to come.

12,885 · April 14, 2019

Final batch for 2018/19......

1997 Lexus LS400 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Even though I now own a new-ish Lexus, it doesn't have the the same feel as my old £500 LS400 and a recent drive in Semi-C's slightly older version reminded me of how awesome they are. I will have another one someday.

1987 Reliant Rialto GLS / SE Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Still a few of these in use. Caught sight of a tatty suffix Y-reg one the other day (which I think should be on here somewhere).

1981 Vauxhall Chevette L 4dr by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Like the late '80s all over again.

1995 Volvo 440 1.8 SE by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1993 Volvo 440 1.8 SXi by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Both seen on the same day.

1992 Peugeot 405 1.9 GR Diesel by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Yet another K-car.

1989 Range Rover Vogue 3.5 EFi Auto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1968 Jaguar 340 Mk2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1982 Ford Fiesta Popular 957cc by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Foxhall Stadium spots #1.

1976 Honda CB360 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

360 seems to be a peculiarly specific engine size.

1977 Mercedes 508D Motorhome 72-76-TB by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Mercedes 508D Motorhome JY-33-PY by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1970 Commer Walk-Thru SK-22-YY by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Daimler Sovereign Van by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1992 Ford Sierra 1.8TD CLX by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1996 Nissan Primera 1.6 GX Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Foxhall Stadium spots #2. I can't park with my wipers left on the screen so a few cars here to frustrate me, but the Primera looks like it's having to deal with an additional problem in that department. Goodness knows what's going on with that Daimler.

1969 Austin 1300 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This appeared as a replacement for the Elf seen earlier the year. I believe it went through an ACA auction.

1989 VW Golf Caddy by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Pleasingly non-scene.

1988 Mazda 1.3 Javelin by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Even lower mileage on the 323 than my Sunny.

1988 Nissan Sunny 1.6 GSX Auto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Another compare and contrast opportunity, later the same day as seeing the 323. I'd previously seen it around, then it came up for sale on eBay nearby so I had to go and take a look.

1967 Audi 72/80 F103 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

I did post this on the grin thread when I first saw it, but surely worth repeating?

1991 Rickman Ranger (Electric) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

An intriguing thing, I believe there might be another one or two also converted to electric power.

1984 Vauxhall Nova 1.2 GL 2dr by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Rubbish photo, but worth it?

1970 Volvo 145 DL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Saw another 145 just a few days later.

1974 Citroen Dyane 6 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This appeared round the back of a local garage.

1997 Rover 100 Ascot 1.1 SE by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Action shot.

1974 Rover 2200 SC by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Sold at a Mathewsons auction at some point in the recent past?

1985 Reliant Fox Utility by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Dollywobbler hopefully doing this one day?

1982 Datsun 280ZX 2+2 Targa Auto by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Surprised to see this locally.

198? Mitsubishi Colt GLX by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

19?? Seat Marbella by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1993 Fiat Uno Hobby by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Mercedes E-Class W123 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Trabants in Berlin by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Daughter SL went to Berlin and spent at least some of her time wisely.

1990 Ford Escort Bonus 90 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1989 SAAB 900S 16V by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

'1970' Jaguar Lynx D-Type by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1987(?) Audi 100 CC Avant by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1988 Jaguar XJ6 2.9 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1981 Citroen GSA Club by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

All the above seen driving to/around/from the Cotswolds. The GSA surely a known car?

That's me up-to-date.

5,295 · April 15, 2019

I bet you didn't anticipate you'd be "spotting" Primera Estates back when they were new eh?

3,147 · April 15, 2019

Green UCF20 LS400 papped in the same car park that our post-past parts car swap came to an end. It’s a regular there, believed to be a Tesco employee’s motor.

A blinding selection of spots, especially the “commercial” Daimler! It has shades of an Irish coachbuilt hearse.

18,874 · April 15, 2019

Great stuff as always! There must be at least a bit of Avon estate in that Daimler, though, judging by the side fillers.

12,885 · August 25, 2019

On 4/15/2019 at 6:38 AM, Snipes said:

I bet you didn't anticipate you'd be "spotting" Primera Estates back when they were new eh?

True enough. As recently as 2005-06, just before I joined this place, I can remember stuff that I really should have photographed, but who else would have wanted to see it?

Anyhow, time to make a start on this year's French holiday finds. This process could take a while, after being back home for two weeks I'm about a quarter of the way through my holiday at the rate of uploading them onto Flickr of 5-10 a day. This year it was a full fortnight in the Tarn et Garonne departement just north of Toulouse, a very nice area. Not so much cross-country driving, so there'll have been a huge amount I missed when cruising along the autoroutes, but we had lots of time to explore the local area and I think I did OK.....

Day 1-2 Home > Newhaven/Dieppe > Tarn et Garonne

Hyundai Accent by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Only thing of note seen on the way down to the ferry. German plate surround but apparently wearing Czech export plates.

Opel Corsa 1.2 GL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Ford Sierra 2.0 Ghia Saloon by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

We'd already covered nearly half our journey south before I found these. Didn't see the Sierra until I wandered across the road to take photos of the Corsa.

Nissan Patrol TD (Model 260) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Mrs SL just about got a shot of this one for me.

Renault 5 Five by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

First Supercinq, still plenty around.

Opel Corsa by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Earlier Corsa with droopy grille syndrome. Had also seen an Astra Mk2-type Kadett with one-piece grille and bumper. Only saw this Corsa when I turned around for the next lot....

Opel Ascona 1.6 Exclusive by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Renault 16 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1970 Renault 16 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Renault 21 Turbo by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Great to find a 16 so early on, especially an earlier model. Black an unusual colour?

1948 Talbot-Lago T26 Record by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Very classy. Apparently quite expensive when new, imagine driving it around post-war France.

Renault 4 and Citroen Xantia by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

A very French scene. Midday on Saturday but does it look as if anyone is about/alive?

1989 BMW 318i Touring by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Citroen H-Van by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Autoroute spots.

1986 Citroen Mehari Azur by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Fiat Panda by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Nissan Primera (P10) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Supermarket stop boded well.

Hyundai Pony by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Another one, but not an Accent.

12,885 · August 25, 2019

Day 3

1972 Citroen DS20 + Caravan by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Citroen DS21 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

These were near where we stayed. Caravan opened up once a week selling food. I don't think it was actually hooked-up to the DS, but it made for a pleasing period combo.

Renault 4 TL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Peugeot 103 Moped by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

VW Polo Fox Coupe by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Peugeot 305 Van by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Busy Sunday market bought out a few things. 305 appeared to belong to one of the stallholders.

Fiat Fiorino by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Toyota Starlet 1.3 Friend by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

This pair looked to be out of use.

Renault 15 TS by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Whoa there! First full day of the holiday and I find a 15? Very pleased to see it, don't think I've seen a 15 on any of my 2010-on French holidays.

Jaguar Mk2 3.4 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

A nice thing to bring on holiday.

VW Golf Boston Mk2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Boot sale regular, I saw it at another one the following weekend.

1995 FSO Caro 1.9 GLD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

1996 FSO Caro by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Having just seen the 15 I then found these. Again, something I don't recall from previous French holidays. Surely a link between the two of them?

1995/96 FSO Caro x2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Ah yes, unsurprisingly they appeared to belong to the same person when we returned a few days later.

Grandin Dallas ‘Jeep’ by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Never heard of these before. Early ones based on Renault 4, later ones (like this?) utilise Peugeot running gear.

Peugeot 203(?) Pickup and Microcars by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Apparently France has a scrappage scheme which is getting some older stuff off the road, but there's still plenty to be seen festering away out in the countryside.

Peugeot 305 SR Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

VW Golf Mk1 Cabriolet by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Peugeot 309 Vital by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Fiat Croma and 616N (Or Unic?) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

All these in the same village, which would prove to be a very productive hunting ground for me. Fiat/Unic commercial had me foxed, initially I was convinced it was a Ford A-Series.

International 654 Tractor by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Lots of smaller/older tractors still in use. Don't think this model ever came to the UK.

More to come later this weekend.

6,973 · August 25, 2019

The 305 van with the crewcab windows. If you happen to see them side windows for sale

I would be extremely interested. Not very likely I know.

12,885 · August 27, 2019

On 8/25/2019 at 1:38 PM, puddlethumper said:

The 305 van with the crewcab windows. If you happen to see them side windows for sale

I would be extremely interested. Not very likely I know.

Sadly I don't have much time/opportunity to explore scrapyards, but you never know - I might see some at a boot sale or the like.

Onwards.....

Mercedes 190E, Peugeot 205, Renaults Estafette and 4(?) by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Bit of an assortment here.

1960 Bentley S2 by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

A classy way of going on holiday.

Toyota Hiace Diesel by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Not a common sight.

Renault Trafic Hymer-mobil Camping Car by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Always worth looking out for older stuff in the motorhome car parks.

1979 Renault 4 GTL by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

For sale, but I suspect the shiny paint was hiding 'issues'.

Renault 21 Nevada GTD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Still plenty of phase 2 models around, but not many phase 1s.

Citroen 2CV by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

A bit of patina to this one, driven by an older lady.

Volvo 760 GLE TD Estate by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Not many of these around. Garage behind it had some interesting stuff laying around.

Mercedes Unimog by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Shame it appears to be out of use, hopefully just temporary.

Ford Sierra and Peugeot 205 GR by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Only Mk1 Sierra I saw.

Peugeot 205 GRD by Spottedlaurel, on Flickr

Seems to have been abandoned right in the middle of the village.

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

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