New second hand car ideas

[thebullettrain]

I still have to fully persuade the other half but it looks like I have a budget of 5k to buy a new car. We currently have VW 1.9TDI (2000) and it has served us well but it is starting to need more money spent on it and I would rather use the opportunity to find a new motor.

• I need a family car which can transport 2 adults and 2 toddlers with ease and be comfortable on long distance journeys (circa 600 mile round trips).

• I am looking for an automatic as I am sick of using a manual when driving in London.

• I don’t mind whether it’s a diesel although I’d prefer a petrol car.

• Something with a bit of ‘pace’ as I’ve never had a powerful car before.

• Something pretty ‘new’ so I’ve discounted most older BMW’s

• The car will only be driven locally during the week so something that can withstand constant cold starts by the other half – so reliability and durability.

• Finally, something that won’t make my noise bleed, each time I have to fill up (admittedly my current lump does that), insure it or get the road tax.

The final point aside, I am currently looking at the 2005 model Legacy. I’ve seen a 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0. The 3.0 looks good but the costs are pretty high.

P.S. – forgot to say that I need decent boot space - something like 500 litres - would be great.

Any ideas would be great.

[MoonMonkey]

I wouldn't have said this a few weeks ago as never considered it for one second. However, I've just sold my ST and needed something big, comfy, safe, cheap to buy, reasonable mpg but with decent performance whilst I decide what to get 'proper' instead of the ST. Ended up with a 2003 Saab 9-5 Aero and am very very impressed. Jury is still out on the reliability front as haven't had it long. Maybe worth a look.... Oh and mine was £3k.

[Fastra]

Perhaps....


2003 SAAB 9-5 2.3HOT Aero [250] 5dr Estate
85k miles
1 Previous owner
FHS

£4650

SAAB

actually...

2004 SAAB 9-5 2.3HOT AERO
53k

- £5490

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2010...

Edited by Fastra on Tuesday 1st June 18:11

[Ved]

I think you've nailed it with a Legacy. I had a diesel one with a massive moon roof as a loaner while my old STI was having a service. I loved every second with it. The derv is a little guttless so i'd go for the 3.0 just for the extra power but as a cruiser you will love it. Cave of a boot too!