Mazda 6 Vs Toyota Avensis

[horster]

Hi.

After 6 years with a VW golf 150 GT tdi and the last 12 months spending a small fortune on new camshaft, cambelt brakes etc. I simply fancy a change and no longer do vast mileage to warrant using a diesel.

Not the most exciting options i know. But basically I am hoping to sell the golf circa 3k and want an estate for 3k also. I basically want something reliable (I would obviously like not to have to sort out any more mechanical issues) and something which is able to cope with high miles as I will be buying a car with 80 - 100k on it with this sort of budget.

Nothing big engined or diesel and preferably an estate as I want it for bike track days too. Basically narrowed it down to either a 2.0 Mazda 6 Ts2 or Toyota Avensis 1.8VVti.

Any one with experience of either of these cars or alternatives. Any help appreciated.

Thanks

[Johnboy Mac]

I've driven both. Avensis is better built I'd say overall but the 6 was a better alround driver. Other than that I can't help but wouldn't dismiss a Mondeo or an Accord.

[horster]

Yes seen some accords also actually. Dubious about Ford build quality on high milers. No evidence on this but just tend to see Toyotas with astronomical miles whereas Fords with high miles havent got same reputation have they?. Not bothered about driving experience really as it is just a workhorse for me for next couple of years.

[Johnboy Mac]

Really I'd say for 3k look at all of them and buy the best you can get, home in on an Avensis if possible would be my bet for that sort of money.

[horster]

Thanks. Do they use cam chains or belts do you know?

[Vulgar LS2]

You need a 7th gen Accord by the sounds of it. Had mine over 5 years now and it's only needed servicing in that time.

[Golaboots]

You'll do well to beat a Mondeo for that money. They last forever and drive well, but sadly look like Mondeos.

An Accord will be nicer but have way more miles on it at £3k.

[Caruso]

:yawn: This is Pistonheads you know.

[Johnboy Mac]

horster said:

Thanks. Do they use cam chains or belts do you know?

Nearly certain it's a chain.

[horster]

OK Thanks. Will have a look at Accords to for that sort of money.

I realise its pistonheads. I was wondering whether to put a post like this on as they aren't exactly exciting options. Cheers guys.

[crox]

We have had a 2.0 petrol ts Mazda 6 estate for 4 years, been a great car, dealers are offering £2500-3000 trade in for a 57 plate 60,000 mile car. Cannot justify changing it at that price.

As far as I know the petrol 2.0 is a chain not belt, most annoying thing on it is consumption on trip shown in litres used per 100 miles, not mpg.

Edited by crox on Wednesday 29th February 22:32

[EDLT]

Johnboy Mac said:

horster said:

Thanks. Do they use cam chains or belts do you know?

Nearly certain it's a chain.

The 6 has a chain. The Avensis uses a belt, although it is supposed to be good for ten years/100,000 miles.

[jamiebae]

Avensis interiors don't wear well at all. Mondeo is worth a look, especially if it's a petrol one as they do last very well and are nice to drive too.

[38911]

Personally i would avoid Mazda like the plague. Our new Mazda 6 was woefully unreliable and the dealers are pretty much disinterested in fixing any issues under warranty.

The manufacturer couldn't give two hoots and to top it all, even basic parts have to come from Japan as Mazda don't seem to keep parts stock in he UK, resulting in frequent bouts off the road. If parts are in short supply (as was the case with the camchain which had a design fault resulting in many failing prematurely), they prioritise supply to the production line and customers who have already bought a car have to wait for weeks on end.

Ours was - by a considerable margin - the most unreliable car we have ever had, including a Rover 200 and an MGF!