Apparently the plugs were pretty worn and the new ones, combined with a new air filter, have led to a marked increase in engine perkiness. I used to attribute the lack of pull below 3000rpm and the breathlessness above 6500 to the limitations of a three-pot, but it now feels completely recaffeinated with ample torque below 2K and a keenness to rev beyond 7K. I haven't hit the limiter yet, though I still think the 12,000rpm rev-counter is a tad optimistic.

However, the service also highlighted the lack of tread on the rear tyres and massive corrosion on the Kakimoto Racing sports exhaust. The tyres were easily sourced via Biltons Automotive in Perivale, who supplied a pair of 175/65 H14 Pirelli P6000s for the faintly ridiculous sum of ΂£38+VAT each!

Exhaust-wise the options were: standard Suzuki (about ΂£190), boy racer system from HKS (about ΂£350), or full stainless system by Quicksilver (about ΂£400). Having already had a sports exhaust and liking the sound, I couldn't go back to a standard system, and as I intend to keep the car for a while, I opted for the 25-year-guaranteed Quicksilver set-up.

The new exhaust is beautifully made and certainly more refined than the old rusting system. I wouldn't swear it adds any extra oomph to the already lively engine, but it's certainly pleasantly smooth and the polished tip looks the business.

All in all, the diminutive roadster remains a delight and, used exclusively for the purpose for which it was created - livening up the daily urban crawl - I can't think of a more evo alternative.