I bought an old fairway taxi on Ebay.Seemed to make sense at the time,seats seven,economical diesel engine,automatic,nifty turning circle etc etc.But what has the reality been?
In a word great.These things are just about indestructible.The Nissan engines are said to be good for 400,000 at least and the rest of the running gear is about as tough.The bodies rust a bit but there is a seperate chassi so thats not as critcal as modern cars.They are easy to pull to bits and nearly as easy to put back together.The performance is reasonable considering the weight of the things and with power brakes and power steering they aren't hard work to drive.The doors open wide and there's almost as miuch room as a medium sized van,you can carry a wheelchair and most have ramps to help load one.If you dislike back seat drivers,just slide the partition across and silence reigns supreme.
They do close on thirty to the gallon and spare parts are easy enough to get and reaonably priced.The battery is a monumental thing that wouldn't look out of place ona juggernaut and is expensive to replace,it should like the rest of the thing last for ever if looked after.Driving is fun.The doors lock when you drive off (good safety point with kids) and the passengers have their own seperate heater.The view over the bonnet reminds you of the old black and white cops and robbers films and for those of a certain age maybe rides down the seaside.People smile and wave,but contrary to what I was told I haven't been flagged down yet.Taxi drivers often stop and chat,the fairways and FX$s seem to have a loyal following and they are usually only too willing to pass on tips and advice.
All in all owning an old black cab has proved a worthwhile and enjoyable experience.I recommend it to anyone.