Best hatchback for 8k Mazda 3 mps, focus ST, Subaru Impreza

[Kirkhouse]

Have a budget of around 8k to buy either an MPS, ST or a WRX (or another suggestion). Hoping for around 10 years old with under 80000 miles.
Atm I'm thinking the Mazda might be the best option but haven't seen many for sale nearby that are in good condition. I've heard a lot of bad things about the WRX in terms of poor engines and poor performance but don't know how accurate this is

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[ChrisH72]

For 8k you could get a 10 year old Megane 250. I’d say that would be better than either of those.

Unless you really need 5 doors?

[D7PNY]

As above, megane probably the best available.

However, if you need 5 doors then don't discount an Alfa Giulietta Cloverleaf.

I bought on to tick the alfa box and it was a great car with pretty sharp handling. Was newer and lower mileage than all other options at the same price point too.

Cheers

dave

[Kirkhouse]

Thanks for the replies, how expensive are renaults to run, like in terms of repairs and reliability.
Have had a quick look on autotrader and rang up about a 265 cup nearby and it had sold yesterday afternoon!

Don't particularly need the 5 doors, just want something entertaining to drive

[DoubleD]

The Megane is a reliable car. They can wear through some front suspension components though.

[charlestdci]

Kirkhouse said:

Thanks for the replies, how expensive are renaults to run, like in terms of repairs and reliability.
Have had a quick look on autotrader and rang up about a 265 cup nearby and it had sold yesterday afternoon!

Don't particularly need the 5 doors, just want something entertaining to drive

I've owned a 265 Cup for 4 years. Official service intervals are every 2 years, or based on miles I think (20,000). Minor service costs at Renaultsport dealer no different to a more mundane family hatch I would say. Major service is a touch expensive, but outside of regular servicing do consider the cost of brake disc/pad replacement. I went for OEM (Brembo) parts and reckon this is where things do get more expensive. Check K-Tec Racing for prices.

My car has been reliable, and a lot of fun, throughout the time ive owned it.

[ZX10R NIN]

The Megane is the best drivers hot hatch find a a Lux with the Cup chassis/Recaros & you'll have hit the sweet spot but they're hard to find.

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

Despite the Megane being better I went for the 5 pot ST it was only a little bit less sharp but that 5 pot made it (for me) feel a bit more special.

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...

I like the MPS but against these two then it comes third especially because you can get the ST in five door form.

The Giulietta is a very good alternatve to the MPS:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202...

[Kirkhouse]

[quote=ZX10R NIN]The Megane is the best drivers hot hatch find a a Lux with the Cup chassis/Recaros & you'll have hit the sweet spot but they're hard to find.

Think I've been convinced to get one now, just have to try find one at the right end of the country. The third one you suggested was the one I tried to go see but had sold day before!

As far as I can tell the cup is far superior over the standard car? Not like I'll be taking it round a track but there are some good back roads round Cumbria haha

[Kirkhouse]

Is there an easy way to spot if a renault has the cup chassis or normal?