Pajero Owners Club of South Africa

So last year thanks to the advise from all of you I converted to Mitsubishi and bought myself a beautiful 2007 facelift 3.2 Did LWB Paj and never looked back.
Never given me a moments hassle and never left me concerned about not being able to handle in any condition.
My problem is this...
I looks like my wife and I are off to Canada for about 2 and a half years from Jan 2013.
This had always been in the pipe line but not for that length of time, so I had always planned on leaving her in SA until I returned but now at that length of time it seems a bit crazy.
I really would like to keep it but there are so many factors to consider in terms of loss of value, is the car worse off by not driving much? etc etc
Any one who has left a vehicle or has any helpful suggestions would be great.... but I am starting to come to terms with the fact that I may have to let her go
Thanks guys

Sparks,

I'm glad we gave you solid advice

Here is my opinion:

The loss in value is relative, because a replacement will also cost more in a few years' time.

Be more concerned with R200k of capital standing in a garage gathering dust. Even a poorly performing investment should return reasonable growth over two years. As a matter of fact, it is possible that a stand on the West Coast (now in the market for R200k) could be worth a heck af a lot more two years from now.

If you keep the beast, one would imagine that you could take a chance and drop the insurance. A bit risky, because I would advise you find a trusty person to take the car for a 50km run(including a cycle through all the 4x4 options) at least once a month.

This is a difficult one. Any chance of return trips during this Canada period? That could swing your decision.

Maybe stick it in the Autotrader just to see if you could get a good price for it. The result of that exercise could make up your mind. You are going to need lots of money for warm clothes

Sparks,

I'd sell it - it is really only a security risk, it devaluates, and Pajero's are made to be used! You can save the money and replace it when you return - by that time you will have gained interest, while a stationary car would have lost value.

What if you decide to stay over there? - just another hassle to manage from a distance...

Anton

Hey Guys, Thanks for you input.
The more I think about it, finding an open garage to keep it in close enough to someone who can run it etc seems unlikely!
So it seems with a tear in my eye I will probably part ways early next year!
One thing is for sure, I will be getting a Pajero when I return, something I never thought I would say! From a sceptic to a big fan after my first experience!
As for the cold..... holy crap, max of minus 2 and min of minus 46 this past feb where we are going... i don't know what to say!