Carl, I love your approach to reviewing an item and the SAL18250 lens is no exception.
I am thinking of getting it to use as a walk around lens for my A-700. I see several advantages to it over my beercan which I have been using.
The wider range 18-250 vs. 70-210 and the more compact design, less weight appear to be major pluses.

I know you have used both, so I ask, how does the picture quality compare between the two.?

I know the SAL 18250 will not be great indoors without a flash, but 90+ % of my shots are outdoors in daylight for soccer, swim meets, some nature, and a lot

I read the review of the lens on this site & am very tempted to get one, especially for the price (£169). I already have a 16-80 Zeiss & a Sigma 70-300, but need something more of a walkabout telephoto lens. The only other review I've read is on Dyxum, where the reviewer is less enthusiatistic. Beginning to wonder whether I should opt for the 18-250 instead, although that means doubling up on part of the 16-80's range. Any thoughts anyone?