I'm fed up with looking at overpriced, overdescribed sheds that are supposedly really well looked after cars. No, I'm not talking about the Integrale but due to a few logistical issues I won't be able to pick that up in time for the Swiss trip.
So it's time to bite the bullet and have another discussion with the tame mechanic to address some of the issues on the 156. Since the thermostat was replaced and I've started driving it like La Polizia was after me, it's actually running rather well. Uses hardly any oil, drinks petrol like it's Chianti and above that it just seems to work. Driving another 156 - which unfortunately came right under the heading above - showed that mine wasn't actually that bad. Brakes could and should be better, though.
Nevertheless I have a nagging feeling that I should get breakdown cover for it. Just in case, like.
Isn't it interesting how risk-averse you tend to get when you get older/more experienced? Ten years ago I wouldn't have wasted a thought on jumping in it and driving it to Switzerland, this time I'm somewhat nervous but that's probably because ten years ago I would've made the trip on my own.