A belated but sincere thanks to all of the helpful suggestions. Scipio has been doing well, with one hiccup: the front driver's side tire fell out of the ball joint during a very hard left turn in a parking lot. I had heard the clunks for a few days beforehand, but wasn't due to see the mechanic until later in the week. Fortunately, no lasting harm was done, though it was very disconcerting.

I'll pick up the Haynes manual next time I'm in the UK. Right now, my only complaint is the really, really pathetic excuse for headlights.