I'd buy Japanese so it doesn't break down. Presumably buying parts whilst you're out there isn't part of the plan: if it breaks, scrap it there and fly home.

If you'd asked a few months back you could have had my Primera GT for next to nothing (which is what the scrap yard paid). With the exhaust patched up. I'm certain it would have made it there and back and not been too slow either.

 

When it gets to the £500 mark, any/most cars would probably be very prone to unreliability, japanese or otherwise. With that in mind, I would re-iterate what Gad said.

Assume it WILL break on the journey and think what type of car you would want that could be back up and running asap, not waiting round days for spares etc.

I'd be looking at VWs & french hatches.

I also don't think you'll get much "sporty" that isn't in need of attention. Maybe find a "nearly" sporty car, warm rather than hot etc. or something that slips under the radar but underneath just like it's overpriced sisters. Maybe Pug 309 (205s will be pricey or "Really ropey" for £500) or 405?

 

Also, what happens if it does break and you don't want it. Can't just dump it, need to find scrapyard etc. and I'm not sure what rules are in Germany/France but something worth considering. Also consider breakdown cover etc.

 

a friend of mine did the student gumball (scumball) and they had AA cover for Europe, when their car broke down they got a rental car for the rest of the trip and their ferry tickets replaced.

 

You sure mate?

"a car for under £1000 to drive to the ring and do a quick lap or two. Preferably it will hold together to drive back"