Best cheap used car (make/model)?

[JagCrusher]

Hi Guys,
My first post on PistonHeads and, yup, it's dumb newbie one!

I'm in need of a 'new' car and I've only got about £1000 to spend, so in your opinion(s) what would be the wisest choice of vehicle?

It'll be used mostly for commuting to work which is a 40mile round trip, about half motorway & half stuck in traffic on A/B roads. Probably the most important thing to me are running costs, i.e. MPG & servicing/repair - I don't want to find out that a new exhaust system is gonna cost £500 six months down the line.

I'd also like something bigger rather than smaller with a bit of comfort & space. I'm middle-aged (sigh) so insurance shouldn't be too much of a concern.

I was thinking along the lines of a Vectra or Mondeo (???).

Would really appreciate any advice from you professionals & experienced car owners, as although I have always been enthusiastic about cars & bikes I have never acquired the knowledge.

Thanks in advance,
Steve

(Note for mods: this is not a wanted advert! I don't want people trying to sell me their cars... I'm just an ign'ant punter interested to know what YOU would buy for a grand. Cheers.)

[JeS10]

Volvo T5 with a light foot! 850, or P1 V70 for that price.

[VeeFour]

A Nissan Primera (P10 or P11 shape - from 1990 to 2002) will be more reliable than a Vectra or Mondeo.

Just watch out for rust where the sills join the rear arches.

[PLamborghini]

JeS10 said:

Volvo T5 with a light foot! 850, or P1 V70 for that price.

What he said.

welcome to PH