What car - Reliability and fun?

[anonymous-user]

Hi all,

Another what car thread, for a change, as I'm deciding to part with my E46 330ci. On going maintenance costs coupled with lack of enjoyment from the auto box has lead me to bite the bullet and sell up. Fortunately I'm able to slot away £800 a month after all my outgoings so after 1 years worth of saving I'll be able to get something I really want.

On to the important part. Requirement priorities fall to reliability. Obviously I'd like something thats also fun to drive but as we all know you can't have it all. Budget 3k. Manual; as my last 2 have been autos and I'm sick to death of them. A good turn of pace 140bhp+. Also comfortable if possible although not a deal breaker. Annual mileage falls around 10k with a mixture of A roads and motorway.

Current thought is a Toyota Celiac; look goodish, should be reliable and a good steer?

Further Suggestions?

[ferrariF50lover]

AB57 said:

a Toyota Celiac

Hahahaha, you've got to love autocorrect.

All modern cars, if sensibly looked after, are reliable. Buy what you like driving, provided it's a decent example.

[cat with a hat]

Toyota Celiac

I would look at a Civic Type r (EP3)

[Löyly]

An EP3 would be a good bet. Amazing engine and gearbox. As a leftfield choice, a 106 Rallye would surely thrill you if you're looking for Lotus Elise levels of handling ability and feedback.

[anonymous-user]

ferrariF50lover said:

AB57 said:

a Toyota Celiac

Hahahaha, you've got to love autocorrect.

All modern cars, if sensibly looked after, are reliable. Buy what you like driving, provided it's a decent example.

Dammit, and here I thought I was good at proof reading

Tell that to my E46, it's one thing after another Nothing major touch wood but it's decided to want all its wear and tear done on me shortly after I've got it.

[anonymous-user]

[quote=Löyly]An EP3 would be a good bet. Amazing engine and gearbox. As a leftfield choice, a 106 Rallye would surely thrill you if you're looking for Lotus Elise levels of handling ability and feedback.
[/quote]

I'll take a look into the ep3, been in my friends and I thought it was great. However after a 12 hour shift I think it would get right on my nerves. Can a good one be had for my budget? Thought they'd be very ropey by now. Last thing I want to do is switch from one money pit to the next.

[Horse Pop]

Is a Celica going to be good on the motorway?

Thought they had a very short gearbox?

[benjijames28]

Can't remember if you said petrol or diesel... But there's nothing wrong with a range of Audi's. You will get something like a high mike A3 in your budget.

Truth is, for 3k almost any car you buy can be a money pit. It's luck of the draw I'm afraid.

[ZX10R NIN]

Fun Reliable Manual:

2004 Clio 182 Cup 70k FSH
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

2006 Clio 197 70k
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

2007 Polo GTI 71k 150bhp not the most fun but it's an option
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

2008 Peugeot 208 GT 51k 150bhp
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...

2008 Peugeot 208 GTI 36k 175bhp FSH
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2016...