I have a budget of £4k and have been looking for a car for a while but can't decide on the best option. I'm looking for a reliable hot hatch that's not too old. I'm 29 and due to living in London for the last few years and previously driving my parents' cars have never had my own car/insurance policy. What will be relatively cheap to insure but still fun to drive?
Guy Temperley, London, UK
Answer
Guy,
Given your budget and insurance issue, you should buy something that looks like a hot hatch but is actually (by a quick driver’s standards) fairly tame. I did something similar for many years. It is the only way to strike a balance between driving fun and insurance costs.
What about a Fiat Punto Active Sport? It comes in bold colours with skirts, spoiler, alloys and sports seats. It has a good stereo, handles like a go-kart and can manage long runs fully laden. Your budget will buy a 2004 model, with 30 – 40,000 miles that will feel like new.
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