Enter a road-car based AutoSolo

Motorsport has never been so simple – or so cheap. Contestants can only use forward gears (so not as confusing as an autotest), and must compete on a sealed surface (no paint-damaging gravel) in an area no bigger than 200m by 200m (Mensa-level brains aren’t necessary). Participants must drive their car to and from the event. Entry is from £20 and any car is acceptable (but MX-5s and small hatches abound). It’s a test of skill as well as speed.

Collect fuel station loyalty points

You’re going there anyway, so why not join the local fuel station’s reward scheme and see what you can save? Schemes like Shell’s Go+ and BPme Rewards offer things like discounts on coffee when you’re in store, or you can save points up to redeem them on Amazon giftcards, while Tesco’s Clubcard and Sainsbury’s Nectar can help you save money on your shopping. And we’re not even on commission for this plug…

Buy something multi-cylinder

The sad fact is that engines are getting smaller. Fewer cylinders, less character, more ordinariness. Future generations will be incredulous that we made V6s, V8s, V10s and V12s and all that interesting stuff. Even a straight six will be a rarity.

Buy now while stocks last and prices are low. Buy one for future generations to listen to and for you to enjoy. Jaguar, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Subaru, Mazda… there’s a configuration with your name on it.

Magazines will continue to thrive – so subscribe to Autocar

As we spend more and more time looking at screens, magazines feel more special than ever. Whether you’re a first time, occasional, irregular or long-term reader, thanks for your support – and if you’re not subscribing already, we’d love for you to join our Subscriber Extra club.