Matt - the E30 was LHD, they all were which is a pain on UK A roads. It was great on track, but the FRP just had the awesome chuckability. The problem with old cars (as per my 944, gti mk2 and e30 M3) is that unless you replace every suspension and steering component, they will really struggle to recapture their former glory. Then even if you do that, the driving experience is tainted by slack driveline etc and the nigglesome worry that if you cane it, you might kill it!!!
I ultimately went for the FRP over the INtegra (back in 2000) because I got a whopping discount which helped overcome its ridiculous list price. Based on test drives, the powerplants were incomparable, the Integra being stonking, the Puma being loud, crackly but limp. Had a slight preference for the Puma drive and feel --- was a hard choice, but no regrets. In fact I looked for a used Frp recently, very cheap now, but a whole pile of expensive problems are being unearthed - like £400 brake discs, regular calliper rebuilds, corroded exhaust / manifolds, rust etc
Both were raw and made lousy motorway cars - dunno about you, but the noise and ride comfort was beyond a joke!!!
Onwards and upwards as they say, but still miss that car. lots of fond memories and just loved the massive lift off oversteer and the way it could be steered on the thottle. Can't help but think a 911 RS is the ultimate grown up FRP / Integra.
Agree about standard Puma having terrific balance and being a super drive. In fact, when I had just the mk4 and the A4, I thought a Ka was an awesome drive down B roads - excellent chassis composure...
So you're Mini Oxford? or engine plant? I am ex PAG, hence the heavily discounted FRP. Not tempted by a Cooper S JC works? that looks like a hoot
