If you are going to cart your young family, the odd school firend, possibly the occasional Grandparent, then you need a bigger car. You can’t avoid the increase in tax or the ever-escalating fuel costs. But you can save great wads of cash by not buying trendy cars and buying slightly older cars.
Cars aged 3 – 7 years old have lost much of their value but still have a lot of reliable working life left. With SUVs, small 4x4s, big 4x4s, MPVs, small MPVs and other acronyms its easy to forget that there the trusty old-fashioned estate car often does everything you need. Here are three to consider:
Peugeot 406 (1996 - 2004)
Spacious, still stylish and great value. Very comfortable and smooth, plus large numbers sold means that there are lots to choose from. Estates are brilliant.
Most economical: 2.0 Hdi 51.4 mpg
Best used buy: 2.0 Hdi estate.
Buy from: Car supermarkets, auctions, private/company owners with history.
UsedCarExpert.com buyers checks:29
Price: A 202 2.0 petrol GLX will have around 49000 miles and be around £,3,400 - £4,000
Vauxhall Vectra I (1995 - 2002)
Great for long journeys, tough and economical. For budget buyers the Vectra makes great sense, especially the estate. Lots to choose from so avoid tatty examples.
Most economical: 2.0 Tdi 47.1 mpg
Best used buy: 1.8 16 valve GLS
Buy from: Car auctions, car supermarkets, independent car dealers.
UsedCarExpert.com buyers checks:17
Price: A 2002 2.0 petrol Club will have around 68,000 miles and be between £3,6000 and £4,300.
Ford Mondeo (2000 - Present)
A truly great family car which is around in huge numbers at low prices. Spacious, comfy interior, lots of engine options, plus it is nice to drive and so easy to own.
Most economical: 2.0Dci 48.7mpg
Best used buy: 1.8.
Buy from: Car supermarket, auction, independent dealers.
UsedCarExpert.com buyers checks: 18
Price: A 2002 2.0 petrol Ghia wil have around 60,000 miles and be between £4,000 and £4,800 (so less than half the original price!)
Price source: Used Car Expert magazine