There have been times when I hoped the Mercedes 190 would one day just disappear. And I wouldn't have been too upset. It seemed like such a good idea when I first spotted the 2.5 16v 190 in Ajman, but time (and a lot of money) has painted a whole different scene.

I have always loved this particular Cosworth-engineered saloon and did what it took to ensure that the blue/black metallic Merc found a permanent parking space under my apartment. Costs have since spiralled out of control, to the point that when Mohamed suggested that I sold the car to him for this month's 'Two Ton Challenge' I snatched his dollars and ran. I have taken a financial hit, but I feared the costs would continue to collect. To date I have spent a total of $ 2900, so out of the kindness of my heart I suggested a $ 400 discount and palmed the car off onto evo's publisher. I might live to regret the sale, but as for now I have a free parking space, perfect for my latest toy - a 1980's Peugeot 205 1.9 GTI (my contender for the 'Two Ton Challenge'). When you spend most of your on-road time fighting torque-steer and lift-off oversteer the memories of what might have been simply drift away.