Well, we finally did it. After a search of London Taxis, we found Bertie, a 1996 Fairway needing a bit of TLC. He'd finished service 3 months ago, and was sitting around looking a bit sorry for himself. His owner, Stuart had spent 4 months looking at taxis in London before buying this P plate 3 years ago, and running him as a taxi in Essex. Now with close to 270,000 miles on the clock, he'll be experiencing life in rural Lincolnshire.
What's not to like? London Fairway taxis are prone to rust, body parts shake about, the gearbox takes some warming if it drops below about 10 degrees, 0 to 60 eventually, noisy and tractor like. I didn't think there were hills in Lincolnshire until I drove Bertie. If you're a cyclist, you know what I'm talking about!
On the plus side, you'll find you have a stupid grin on your face, driving an absolute classic design for not too much up front cost. The Nissan 2.7 litre diesel engine is a tough old boot, (many exceeding half a million miles) strapped to a reasonable auto-box. With friends and family in the back, it's like a mobile social event. The high up driving position, automatic box, and slow pace make for a relaxing drive.
I've read some great blogs and advice from fellow Fairway drivers, so thanks to you all. I'm writing this to offer my own experience as a new owner.
Bertie the Black Cab. The mildly perilous adventures of an adopted London taxi
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