If you only go to the station and back each day, you probably don’t want too much capital tied up in your car. Whilst it is still infuriating when someone clips your wing mirror in the car park or scuffs your bumper, it’s a lot less upsetting when the car’s value isn’t huge.
But, just because you are spending less than the UK average on a used car doesn’t mean you have to drive a jalopy. Walk around a supermarket and you would be forgiven for thinking that a small budget means a tatty car. Get out and visit some private sellers though, and you will see that there are lots of fantastic cars in loved condition, that can be yours for £3,000 or less. Here are three, with very different strengths, to think about:
Alfa Romeo 147
Solid for an Alfa Romeo looks good and drives brilliantly. Don't buy a boring Golf if you want some real character. Prices getting softer by the month.
Most economical: 1.9 JTD 49mpg
One to buy: 1.6 petrol Lussos
UsedCarExpert.com fault checks: 10
Used Car Expert magazine price: A 2001 Alfa Romeo 147 TS Lusso 1.6 with average mileage of just 59,204 will be between £2,250 and £3000
Peugeot 206
Spacious, good specifications and now price. Getting on a bit so early models are great value as there are so many around. But it looks just as stylish as the newer 207. Which is why both stayed in production alongside each other for a while.
Most economical: 2.0 HDi 62.8mpg
One to buy: 1.4 or 1.6 petrols
UsedCarExpert.com fault checks: 17
Used Car Expert magazine price: A 2001 Peugeot 206 8v 1.4 Style with average mileage of 54,259 will be between £2,250 and £3,001
Toyota Avensis
Regarded as better looking than the older model but having lost none of its strengths: reliability, quality build, reasonable handling and balance, plus interior space. An excellent all-rounder.
Most economical: 2.0 D4-D 47.9 mpg
One to buy: 1.8 VVTi petrols
UsedCarExpert.com fault checks: 14
Used Car Expert magazine price: A 2002 Toyota Avensis 1.8 VVTi CDX with 68,223 miles will be between £2,251 and £3,002.