Hello!

Hi everyone, the name's Stu from Gloucester.
I don't actually have an Almera yet, but I thought I'd join the forums as I plan on getting one over the coming months. I've been lurking around, looking at the gallery threads for inspiration and looking out for common problems so I know what to look out for when buying.

At the moment I drive a K11 Micra 1.0l, which I've had since January but I need something a bit bigger. I love the Micra and the only car I said I'd replace it with would be an N15 Almera GTI. My Dad used to have an N15 1.4 Esteem in red, and I always liked the body style of the Almera. I've been looking around for GTIs, and there are a few around of varying price and quality. I'll just have to see what's around when I finally have the cash saved up and waiting.

My plan is to purchase the car and SORN it for a few months, giving me that chance to sort out any problems and rust proof the chassis if needed. I have my heart set on a 3-door GTI, but practically I'd need a 5-door (I just don't like the look of 5-door hatchbacks). If I had to, what's the work involved in converting a 5-door to GTI spec?

Stu

Welcome Stu

There's not too much work involved in fitting the SR20 into a 5 door. Depending on the phase you get (1 or 2) will depend on the engine loom you'll need. Engine mounts are interchangeable
Along with the hubs/brakes.

There's a wealth of information and experience here so you'll have no trouble getting it done

Mike

Another one from the MSC seems to be the natural progression!

Natural progression indeed. My family went from a K11 Micra, to an N15 Almera, then a P11 (144) Primera, and all in red too
I'll probably be exactly the same.

Ideally I'd like a phase 2 GTI in red. Modifications are low on priorities as I'd want to make it a nice example rather than bolt a load of things to it. I said that about my Micra though, and I didn't do too bad on that:

http://i.imgur.com/Cs4khWM.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/PFBqcS6.jpg

Welcome