new driver

[dyli795]

i have passed my driving test at 56 ,after 3 and a half years of lessons and 6 tests. i have just bought a 12 year old vauxhall corsa and got in it to drive round the block for the first time in it last night.what a nightmare.my instructors car was brand new .wether thats got anything to do with it i dont know,but i felt like id never driven before.everything was jerky,it was horrendous.it took me all my time to drive the car,never mind concentrate on the road.i was ok on lessons.is this normal?will it get better.im frightened to go on the main road now. im worried i wont be able to drive this car like i hoped.id be grateful for any experiences or opinions and to feel im not on my own.it might help my confidence.thanks in anticipation.dylis

[lil123]

Once you get used to that car you will be fine
I was like that when I first started driving now I can drive any car or van
Just take it slower in it at first and familiar yourself with the gears clutch indicators etc
Just do short journeys at first to build your confidence up
and congratulation's on passing your test !!

[pink-kittens]

If you feel a little nervous why not get some of those green P plates?

I know if I see another driver with them on I do make allowances for slower movements etc

[Cockney_si]

A 12 year old Corsa would certainly put me off driving as when I had my 12 year old Vauxhal Nova it had the same running gear and I hated it.

If it was me I'd trade it in at a garage for a better car, say a Honda or something nicer.

[Panic Button]

On a clear day, toddle off for a drive into the country.

Plan a route that is not likely to stress you, and take it easy.

You need time to get to know the vehicle, and to relax into your driving. There is no substitute for experience.

Any 12 year old vehicle will have its faults and show signs of wear. However once you know how to get the best out of it, you will be happier with it. My car is similar, and as I battle with the worn clutch, or declutch to get into a troublesome gear, I smile at the thought of how cheap my motoring is compared with those who have new cars.

You might need advice from an experienced driver about how to cope with some of the problems of your car.

[THECORBYLOON]

I've driven for a good few year and I drove a pal's car recently for the first time. It took me a while to get used to the clutch and the gears and at one point when parked, I thought I was going to end up in a ditch because I couldn't find reverse.

It's just a matter of getting used to it and being an older car compared to the instructors, the controls won't be as responsive or smooth.

[dougielogan]

I would get an experienced driver to try the car in case there is something wrong with the car. A 12 year old corsa could have some problems.

[dyli795]

thanks everyone for taking the trouble to answer.it makes me feel better.