Road rage

D lock. Totally legit to have one attached to your frame. Totally heavy and swingable.

Sadly, everyone has a story similar to this; you just have to 'suck it up' and try not to escalate the situation, although that can be difficult if you've just been surprised with a close pass.  Helmet camera footage and the police might get interested, or the protagonist backs down when he sees the camera.  Usually it's commuting time when the real a*seholes get in their cars.

You did the right think man there's no point in trying to argue with an angry person

Reporting it seems pointless. Hit-and-run drivers who kill cyclists get only £500 fine and 6 mos suspended driving privileges. The authorities and the court system in the UK seem to condone it - their attitude seems to be that the only good cyclist is a dead cyclist. And so in comparison, road rage against a cyclist would probably earn that motorist a pat on the back from the local sheriff.

Exchanging verbal abuse could escalate the situation, possibly resulting in a physical confrontation. If you're experienced in this sort of situation and able to handle yourself in a fight, that might be a good option. I have a telescoping baton attached to my frame with a bit of velcro. These are amazingly effective weapons, and a very practical "equalizer" in physical situations if you practice with it a bit. A sound thrashing might make him think twice before accosting a cyclist again, and if so, you would have done the community a big favor. On the other hand, if you left him conscious, he might come after you in his car, or the wanker may go home and kick his dog. So - some downsides to this option.

Ignoring his rant and continuing your ride does seem the best option, so long as the abuse and intimidation do not get out of hand. I concur in your regret that you were unable to record the entire episode, and get the plate number of the vehicle. People have a strong tendency to cool off when they know they're being recorded!

Road rage is just another risk we must bear for sharing the roadway with motorized vehicles. The only real solution for these risks is to segregate the motorized vehicles as they've done successfully in other countries. And since you asked for opinions, here's mine: Spend 2-3 hours communicating with your government representatives, and let them know that you think this is imperative.

Few days ago had my first near miss as car pulled out. A whhhooooaaaa shouted. 50 yards later at lights guy gets out of car.  I waited for rant but got humble apologies and red face as guy said should know better as rides himself. 

Remember the licence plate number and if you ever see the car parked again, pry open the fuel cap and fill with sugar.

Kidding.

Or am I.

Don't take it personally, you could be 6ft 4, built like a tank, could be famous, or ultra-rich and powerful, none of it would matter. What happens is a douche in a highly protective pram feels invincible, sees something vulnerable on their way to doing something douchey, and starts shouting random shite out their window.

It's what douche does. (vid features Gollum and a spot of karama for kicks)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hD3brXusROQ 

You took the sensible option. 9/10 I do the same. Most people who do this are angry at something and venting. No point getting dragged in. If it's just a bit of swearing and no serious attempt to injure, I say irgnore them.

Others will say you should report every incident, perhaps they are right. I'd let it slide unless he tried cutting you up while moving again. Then I'd report.

Only once have I ever got into a serious "row" with a motorist, and although I "won" it, I regretted taking the bait.