London - trains, training, Russian spies and the like

Headed down to nodnoL on Tuesday after work for a two-day entry-level course on Flash Macromedia.
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On my return last night, I found I had a cheque from my insurance company for my written-off car. However, they did not send me an engineer's report as requested, so I called them today and explained that I wanted an assessment of the damage from another party as I had a great deal invested in the car. They've promised to get back to me. Fingers crossed.

And so, back in the office today. I would have stayed at home, but there's a lunchtime meeting I'm expected to attend, so I couldn't really get out of it. I also have to sort out my new computer, expense claims and various purchase orders for new software and some extra training.

Opinions sought on car issue

The actual figure for getting my VW Golf repaired quoted by the insurer's garage is £1800, not the £1500 I was told the other week (stupid woman forgot to include VAT). They've offered me £1225 for it, and have in fact sent me a cheque already.

However, the car is salvageable. It has been written off, but as a Class C, which means "Cosmetic damage". I can buy it back for £120 and get the local garage to fix it with second-hand parts and the like, which would probably leave some extra cash for spending on archery gear for saving. Apparently the car wouldn't need to be re-registered, the insurance would not be affected and the only drawback is that in the event of another accident, the insurer would knock 10% off the value of the car for damage assessment purposes.

The alternative is to buy another car for £1200 or less. The garage I use has two Ford Mondeo 1.6 LXs - £900 and £1200 - which are both much roomier than the Golf (excellent for LRP) and about as economical according to the figures. Being Fords they should be cheap to maintain, and Whatcar.com gives this particular version (from 1997-98) very high ratings. However, such a car would be a bit more to tax, insure, and is considerably bigger than the Golf, which I'm well used to driving. Also, we have had the Golf since 97, are fully aware of how well it has been maintained and being a VW it's likely to keep running until the body falls off or the heat death of the universe. The Mondeos would come with MOT and a warranty from the garage (which is very reputable and fair), but still. Or am I being sentimental about the Golf? Or what?

Or should I take the money and wait for a different car to come along?

Opinions on a postcard, or in the form of comments.