When buying a second-hand car for £750, it’s not just finishing the rally that can be a challenge, but simply reaching the start-line is a feat in itself. The car, a Rover 216 Cabriolet, took 3 weeks and 7 attempts just to pass its M.O.T! True to the Bangers4Ben task “It’s definitely a banger”, Loiuse told the BBC. Watch their journey here.
Before setting off on Saturday 8th, Louise and Rachel stopped by a local school in Birmingham with Magenta (the car) for a show and tell. By the time Magenta had made it to Dover, the engine light was on and the roof had a hole in it. Not long later the car had broken down. But… Louise and Rachel patched her up and made it to Lyon in time for dinner.
Day 2 and the team have made it to Monte Carlo, suffering just the 2 breakdowns this time. Despite being accompanied Top Gear style by an AA van, Louise got to work and fixed the car without assistance. Sadly the roof wasn’t fixed, so the team decided to ditch it and and continue with the top down… in the pouring rain. Fortunately, their stylish headgear would suffice.
Sadly, on day 3, AA support was finally required, with a mere 8 breakdowns! The team have discovered that cable ties are no match for the alps. Despite their intriguing 8-stop strategy, Louise and Rachel made it to Grenoble for a well earnt drink.
Louise and Rachel have 2 more days to go to reach the finish line and we wish them all the best.
Ben is a charity dedicated to supporting the people of the automotive industry. Working to help people’s mental health, physical health and wellbeing. If you’d like to to Automechanika Banger-ham, you can do so here.