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My tow car is a Mk 5 VW Golf GT-TDi 2.0 140 bhp. I'm thinking of getting it re-mapped upto 185 bhp, ive been quoted £199. My 1st question is, would this make it a better towcar or worse, i dont understand how the 'torque' works. I'm assuming it would, but just need to be sure.

My 2nd question is...if i was on a long journey through the night towing a caravan, am I legally allowed to pull into a layby and sleep in the caravan ?

Regarding your first question, you will find that the majority of vehicles with a higher BHP will be faster and diesels will typically produce more engine torque although it is not always the case as with the Hyundai Tucson for example. Although the Tucson is classed as an acceptable towcar it only has 111 BHP but delivers a huge engine torque of 181 lbs./ft. This means that although it's not actually a fast vehicle it's climbing ability is somewhat awesome. Now the Ford Focus 2.0 diesel estate has 136 BHP and will do 0 - 60 mph. in around 9 seconds but has less engine torque of 177 lbs./ft. which is more than adequate for it's towing capabilty. Your vehicle already has 140 BHP which currently delivers a massive engine torque of 236 lbs.ft. so in comparison to the above then you already have in your favour far more than what is required. To increase the engine BHP may not necessarily increase the engine torque so to pay for an upgrade of £199 really is not worth it judging by the engine spec you already have.

Regarding your second question, the law on motorhomes in lay-by over night stops in England and Wales is different to that in Scotland. In England and Wales you cannot legally stop in a lay-by overnight and the Police have the right to move you on although they may well just turn a blind eye to it just for one night. However, in Scotland you can of course legally stop in a lay-by overnight so if this is the case with motorhomes then the same law will also apply to caravans as well.