Sounds good
Spec 3.0-litre V6 K&N 57i kit Formula Power 10mm HT leads Wolf pack extras Cades Bern 8.5x20 alloys Continental ContiSportContact3 tyres Infinity custom exhaust With a packed diary, Jamie has been using the big V6 all over the UK.
It’s been a busy month for me this issue, and I’m ashamed to say that I haven’t found time to make any mods to the big Mondeo. But, in my defence, that’s because I’ve been too busy actually using it! So, while the spec list may remain the same this month, the ST’s still seen plenty of action.
Aside from the regular trips to and from work and mundane stuff like going to get the weekly shop, the ST has also been allowed to stretch its legs a fair bit too. All of which gave me the perfect opportunity to thoroughly assess the recently fitted wheels and tyres, and the new exhaust system I had fitted last month. On that subject, I must hold my hands up and apologise for my cock-up – anyone calling the number we published last issue wanting a new exhaust would have found we printed the wrong number! And because I don’t do anything by halves, I also managed to cock-up the web address too! Sorry. If you do want to speak to Infinity Exhausts about a custom system, the correct details are – 01454 273123, and www.infinityexhausts.co.uk.
The first of the Mondeo’s trips was a dash over the Severn into Wales for a mini-break with the missus, followed by a cross-country jaunt to Norfolk to cover an upcoming feature for the mag. The ST swallowed up the miles effortlessly, the new tyres felt great and although road noise is a little louder than with the standard tyres fitted, it’s barely even noticeable and the ride quality is largely unaffected too. The odd pothole may have caused me to wince once or twice as I imagined the rim cutting through the incredibly small tyre sidewall, but all was well. On the day of the shoot in Norfolk the weather decided to come over all ‘British summer’ and chuck it down – not good for a photoshoot but the perfect opportunity for me to try the new Contis in the wet! And they’re brilliant, quite possibly the best wet-weather tyre I’ve ever used. They’re pricey, yes, but you definitely get what you pay for when it comes to tyres.
Those long journeys also gave the new exhaust time to settle down too, and I’m pleased to say that too is awesome! It has a lovely rumble at idle and low speeds, is quiet enough to live with on a daily basis at normal driving speeds, and sounds like a race car when you really open the taps. The only problem is you get addicted to the noise! And a 3-litre V6 pulling upwards of 6000rpm means you don’t drive past too many petrol stations! Having said that, at least I can now hear where some of that fuel money is going – I just need to learn to use it in moderation I think! Also this month, my car insurance expired, so naturally I got on the phone to the man who supplies all our quotes for our Ultimate Guide features – Paul Bostrom at Need to Insure. Practice what you preach and all that. And why wouldn’t I, when Paul got me the perfect, fully comprehensive cover, including all mods declared (and with scope for many more to follow) for less than I could find online! Job done.
Next month I’d like to say I’ll be looking at getting some suspension sorted for the ST, but with a house move imminent it’s more likely its load-lugging capabilities will be called upon to cart all my crap to a new house! Wish me luck.
“It has a lovely rumble at idle” jamie