[A guest blogger tells us about the ending of his years-long affair with his Mini Coupé.]

I remember when I went for my first ride – and no, I’m not talking about the night of the matric dance. She was a beauty. Purred like a kitty rolling in cat-nip. We toured the city. Johannesburg is splendid at night, especially after the rain, where it glistens liquid silver. I picked up my mate Melusi, and we just cruised. Listening to tunes through my first bluetooth-enabled sound system.

We went everywhere together, she and I. I had trips down to Parys with my dad – we’d fly-fish for hours, reminiscing about my childhood, full of hope with the dawn of a new era for our country.

I didn’t give her a name… I never went that far. Pronouns were probably crazy (in love) enough. But then another woman came along… for a while we all worked well together, until commitment flew in on the wings of a stork, and soon I was married to my best friend, the most beautiful person in the world.

Now, we’ve had white feathers in the chimney for a third time. With my latest kid, it’s time to get a more family-friendly vehicle. It’s heart-breaking losing something you love, but even worse if I lost her unscrupulously; I read about a guy who was scammed out of his car because he used an online ad service. Going through BuyCentre meant peace of mind. She would go to the right person – and not somebody who would just strip her.

BuyCentre took her off my hands, and ensured I got the best possible price from a range of dealer offers. But I still think about her. A lot. I have a meadow of memories. The wife draws the line at a framed picture by the bed, though.

Thanks, BuyCentre. At least I got great bucks for her shiny beige behind.