I would love the car but I simply can't justify that much for a car. As I spent the last several years living and working in the African bush I'm starting fresh in the UK, new car, new job, no savings (therefore car will be financed) and not the best paying job! Really, I'd like another VX/Lotus but it's just far beyond what I can justify at this point. I was initially only looking at spending about 5k on a car until I saw the prices the zeds were going for.
I know you say you dont want to pay extra for Vik's car but its only across the water plus I bet you any car you will see wont be in as good condition.
I wouldnt say 20mpg combined or 15mpg round town more add 5mpg on both and your about right.
If you really really really really really really really really cant afford Viks car I'd go for an early import with Brembo's. They can be had for 5ish usually.