In Martyn’s garage

2007 Ford Ka I still have the ex-project Ka. Nearly sold it a couple of times, but it has just passed its MOT if anyone needs a runabout.

2005 Renault Clio 1.2 A trade-in, so presented it to my goddaughter on her 18th birthday. However, she is currently 20 years old and still hasn’t passed her driving test. The Clio has sat in a lock-up for some time – must drag it out soon and make it roadworthy.

2004 Audi A8 4.0 TDI V8 Loud ticking in the engine has yet to be resolved, although we now believe it is a leaking injector seal. Has spent months at a VAG specialist garage as repair is needed to an electronic issue with the rear light assembly. On SORN and no MOT.

2003 Skoda Octavia 1.9 130 PD Sits around a bit these days, but fires into life when asked and drives well. Approaching 100k. Remapped to 195bhp in 2010. Lowered by 30mm. Just passed MOT.

1998 Ford Scorpio Ultima 2.3 16v Had bad press when launched in 1994 and there’s still many who dislike the shape of the bug-eyed Ford. Owned since 2008 and now on 58,000 miles.

1989 Volkswagen Jetta 1.8 16v Has been sitting in a lockup since 2005. Failed to start seven years ago, due to stale fuel and possible fuel pump damage. Need time to collect and fettle.

1974 Ford Capri Ghia 3.0 Bought in 1987, when it was original and battered. I had the bodywork restored in 1991, after which it sat idle for many years before being made roadworthy again in 2009. Still needs work and hasn’t moved for nearly seven years.