excellent link. I like the car with the petrol pump hose dragging behind, classic. I share your thoughts on taking the Mas over there, i think rentals is the answer. I did get a lift to an airport in a taxi in Kazan and the driver was determined to show me how quickly he could get me there, and we hit 130 mph in a focus, i was just glad to be alive when i got out of the car!
I particularly liked the guy who climbed world-wearily from his trashed car, slung his bag over his shoulder and ambled off to wherever without a backward glance. Sums it up, really!