First car? Open to “alternative” choices
Discussion
ZX10R NIN said:
Nope but make sure the cambelt has been done, they're a rare car to find 180bhp nice spec & decnt handling.
Seller wasn’t responsive and now it’s listed as sold so the search continues. Lots of Focus everywhere but seeing that I can get a newer faster better equipped car for not much more insurance is what’s throwing me off a bit. Doubt i’ll come across another Megane that spec though. Is there any other leftfield type of choices? Would prepare to spend nearer 2000 ideally 1600/1700 max for something bit nicer inside otherwise if it’s a basic older Focus or etc would want it around a grandEdited by LandOTheBrave on Sunday 13th June 17:58
I’ve seen some old A3 1.6 and Golf 1.4 advertised with relatively low mileage for pretty much same as what cars like mk2 Focus and Civics come up at. They are poverty spec though and everything I read online tells me they’ll be woefully slow. Are they that bad? They don’t really excite me at all though for the money seem okay value to me. Is there anything i’m missing? That Megane GT I got a quote on was a 2 litre turbo giving me same insurance quotes as a boggo golf. I’m trying to think what similar type of cars are out there, decent spec and performance that isn’t a common choice so could be not too harsh on insurance. When browsing i’ve seen some 1 series although I’m thinking at this sub 2k budget they’d either be wrecked or crap spec
ZX10R NIN said:
Astra SRI 180
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106133...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106033...
I like the look of that on paper but i’m just not into Vauxhalls, not a badge snob at all i’m open to other marques though just not them. Any other “warm” hatches out there? I wouldn’t be averse to a slightly larger car if that widened the options although I know it’s slim pickings. Based in Glasgow so looking at vehicles not too far from there. https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106133...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106033...
mike9009 said:
LandOTheBrave said:
Just spoke to a relative that has a Cooper S and he said it’s caused him a lot of grief with the chain snapping. I do like them although I think at this budget it wouldn’t be wise going for it, read over the PH buying guide and I’m doubtful any car around 2k is going to be free of most of those issues . I’m a fan though and could be something to go for later on when i’ve got more funds to maintain it.
The R56 MCS from 2007 onwards have the timing chain issues. These are the second gen MINI and are turbo charged. A second gen Cooper or One do not have the same issue.The R53 MCS (2001 - 2006) do not have the same timing chain issue. These are supercharged and are an absolute hoot. The superchargers can get tired at about 100k though. The regular Cooper or One are also good fun but the gearboxes on these are not great up to about 2004 when they changed the gearbox for another type. So at your price range, a post 2004 Cooper would be my pick of the bunch.
LandOTheBrave said:
mike9009 said:
LandOTheBrave said:
Just spoke to a relative that has a Cooper S and he said it’s caused him a lot of grief with the chain snapping. I do like them although I think at this budget it wouldn’t be wise going for it, read over the PH buying guide and I’m doubtful any car around 2k is going to be free of most of those issues . I’m a fan though and could be something to go for later on when i’ve got more funds to maintain it.
The R56 MCS from 2007 onwards have the timing chain issues. These are the second gen MINI and are turbo charged. A second gen Cooper or One do not have the same issue.The R53 MCS (2001 - 2006) do not have the same timing chain issue. These are supercharged and are an absolute hoot. The superchargers can get tired at about 100k though. The regular Cooper or One are also good fun but the gearboxes on these are not great up to about 2004 when they changed the gearbox for another type. So at your price range, a post 2004 Cooper would be my pick of the bunch.
A couple of Mini’s come up local, doesn’t look like i’d get into a Cooper S for under 2k, I suppose even the normal Cooper would feel more lively than a 1.6 bigger car. On the normal cars is there anything in particular to look out for or avoid?
Not sure what the insurance would be like on one of these 
, but I drove a family member's one for a few weeks when I wrote my car off and I liked it! (about 10 years ago mind...). Was annoyed she wouldn't sell me it.
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106073...
, but I drove a family member's one for a few weeks when I wrote my car off and I liked it! (about 10 years ago mind...). Was annoyed she wouldn't sell me it.https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106073...
ZX10R NIN said:
As I suggested earlier the Mito 155
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106143...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202105222...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106163...
Nice but all are too far. https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106143...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202105222...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106163...
Have thought about something like a Swift which i’m sure is a good car but I just want something bigger. If I could find a good civic i’d be happy though nothing came up yet
Okay still not found anything. Been insured on the family e90 past couple of weeks so not been looking for cars however the check engine light came on so that’s off to the garage. 320i is hardly quick and I understand i’m not going to get something fast as a first car however after driving the beamer i’d like something that isn’t going to feel much slower than it. An a3 2.0 fsi popped up on facebook not really exciting though doesn’t look bad for the price, anything to look out for? Open to paying nearer 1600/1700 for a good spec quicker car whereas want it nearer 1000-1200 for something more basic although after driving the bmw for a while I think it’s best if I spend that bit extra to get something bit nicer
lolI think you need to be a bit more realistic with your expectations given your low budget and age. Also if you are living in Glasgow, consider the clean air zone that will be rolled out soon. You don't want to be paying a tenner a day to drive your car!
Get something sensible, like this Kia ProCeed
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106083...
Get something sensible, like this Kia ProCeed
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106083...
georgeyboy12345 said:
I think you need to be a bit more realistic with your expectations given your low budget and age. Also if you are living in Glasgow, consider the clean air zone that will be rolled out soon. You don't want to be paying a tenner a day to drive your car!
Get something sensible, like this Kia ProCeed
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106083...
Hmm maybe, just seems a lot of variety in the budget i’m looking at. Could get a basic Focus, warm Megane, Cooper S all for same insurance. Kia is okay but not gonna lie I want a something a bit nicer, that’s the main thing putting me off the Focus. I like them from the outside but inside is a bit spartan, the Civic 1.8 to me is best all rounder performance space and looks wise. Just not many good condition ones coming up these days. Never thought about the clear air thing tbh.Get something sensible, like this Kia ProCeed
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106083...
My vote would be a petrol civic. 1.4 for insurance purposes but it couldn't pull the skin off custard although gives decent economy. 1.8 is a bit better and are more common so easy to find but might be prohibitive on insurance.
The model ran from c. 2006 to 2011, so a 2009 model will be functionally and aesthetically the same as an earlier model so don't worry about going for the slightly earlier models, condition/service history more important at this age.
Pretty futuristic inside with its double height 'spaceship' cockpit.
My dad had the 2.2 diesel which went like s
t off a stick for 18 year old me, and he actually put me on the insurance - mad lad! I felt like the absolute Don in it at the time, good memories of that lovely car.
Cavernous as well, think we went 10 up in it at one point although that is not to be condoned!
The model ran from c. 2006 to 2011, so a 2009 model will be functionally and aesthetically the same as an earlier model so don't worry about going for the slightly earlier models, condition/service history more important at this age.
Pretty futuristic inside with its double height 'spaceship' cockpit.
My dad had the 2.2 diesel which went like s
t off a stick for 18 year old me, and he actually put me on the insurance - mad lad! I felt like the absolute Don in it at the time, good memories of that lovely car.Cavernous as well, think we went 10 up in it at one point although that is not to be condoned!
One of my mates had a Hyundai Coupe as a first car and I reckon they still look decent (never actually drove it). Insurance maybe a different kettle of fish these days!
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202105172...
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202105172...
Wadaboo said:
My vote would be a petrol civic. 1.4 for insurance purposes but it couldn't pull the skin off custard although gives decent economy. 1.8 is a bit better and are more common so easy to find but might be prohibitive on insurance.
The model ran from c. 2006 to 2011, so a 2009 model will be functionally and aesthetically the same as an earlier model so don't worry about going for the slightly earlier models, condition/service history more important at this age.
Pretty futuristic inside with its double height 'spaceship' cockpit.
My dad had the 2.2 diesel which went like st off a stick for 18 year old me, and he actually put me on the insurance - mad lad! I felt like the absolute Don in it at the time, good memories of that lovely car.
Cavernous as well, think we went 10 up in it at one point although that is not to be condoned!
The spaceship Civic to me is the best combo of looks interior power and price, unfortunately the price for those seems to have risen. Most examples I see are 1500 ish with at least 100k mileage. Kicking myself I seen a couple of Type S with lower mileage for same price should of bought either when I had the chance. If I see a good one pop up i’d go for it though nothing recently.The model ran from c. 2006 to 2011, so a 2009 model will be functionally and aesthetically the same as an earlier model so don't worry about going for the slightly earlier models, condition/service history more important at this age.
Pretty futuristic inside with its double height 'spaceship' cockpit.
My dad had the 2.2 diesel which went like s
t off a stick for 18 year old me, and he actually put me on the insurance - mad lad! I felt like the absolute Don in it at the time, good memories of that lovely car.Cavernous as well, think we went 10 up in it at one point although that is not to be condoned!
ilikejam said:
One of my mates had a Hyundai Coupe as a first car and I reckon they still look decent (never actually drove it). Insurance maybe a different kettle of fish these days!
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202105172...
My dad had one of these and it was just trouble, drank fuel too. I like the looks but that’s all really.https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202105172...
I’ve had a think about would be open to increasing my budget, was originally aiming for 3500 all in about 1700 on insurance and same sort of fig on car. I’d be happy to push it up to 4000 although i don’t think it really gets you anything more. I’ve seen some e87 1 series which look interesting, would be aiming for an m47 118d or 120d. Insurance more expensive on the latter but the former is proving more expensive actually. Any thoughts? I totally get not wanting to spend a lot on the first car - which I don’t - but since i’ve waited a while anyway I don’t mind putting a bit extra in for something bit better
Young Luke, remember that anything you buy in your budget will need fixed/serviced.
Like others have said, you’ll need to compromise. Try and get over the ‘more modern’ feeling and don’t get wound up about spec.
A 1.6 Focus looks like a pretty ok motor to start with.
If you’re in that budget, a BMW or Alfa will ruin you.
Be prepared to travel for the right car.
There’s a lot of truth in buying on condition rather than mileage/year, too.
Girls don’t care what year your car is.
Like others have said, you’ll need to compromise. Try and get over the ‘more modern’ feeling and don’t get wound up about spec.
A 1.6 Focus looks like a pretty ok motor to start with.
If you’re in that budget, a BMW or Alfa will ruin you.
Be prepared to travel for the right car.
There’s a lot of truth in buying on condition rather than mileage/year, too.
Girls don’t care what year your car is.
nobrakes said:
Young Luke, remember that anything you buy in your budget will need fixed/serviced.
Like others have said, you’ll need to compromise. Try and get over the ‘more modern’ feeling and don’t get wound up about spec.
A 1.6 Focus looks like a pretty ok motor to start with.
If you’re in that budget, a BMW or Alfa will ruin you.
Be prepared to travel for the right car.
There’s a lot of truth in buying on condition rather than mileage/year, too.
Girls don’t care what year your car is.
Yeah definitely. Since i’ve waited a while now I don’t mind spending a little bit more for something “nicer”. Thing is the insurance for something like a 118d is not far off at all what it is for a 1.8 civic or a 1.9 tdi a3. Basically the quotes don’t seem to vary that much regardless of the power and engine type therefore i’d much rather spend to get a better spec car. Obviously I don’t want to get something that won’t be financially feasible to run, but if I can get the next model up for not much more than the cooking ones, then I’d much prefer that. If I could find a m47 118d for around 2k I’d be happy, the 120d are cheaper to buy but insurance dearer. A3 could be an option but dependent on the engine, don’t really see many Golfs at this price point Like others have said, you’ll need to compromise. Try and get over the ‘more modern’ feeling and don’t get wound up about spec.
A 1.6 Focus looks like a pretty ok motor to start with.
If you’re in that budget, a BMW or Alfa will ruin you.
Be prepared to travel for the right car.
There’s a lot of truth in buying on condition rather than mileage/year, too.
Girls don’t care what year your car is.
Edited by LandOTheBrave on Tuesday 13th July 12:33
LandOTheBrave said:
nobrakes said:
Young Luke, remember that anything you buy in your budget will need fixed/serviced.
Like others have said, you’ll need to compromise. Try and get over the ‘more modern’ feeling and don’t get wound up about spec.
A 1.6 Focus looks like a pretty ok motor to start with.
If you’re in that budget, a BMW or Alfa will ruin you.
Be prepared to travel for the right car.
There’s a lot of truth in buying on condition rather than mileage/year, too.
Girls don’t care what year your car is.
Yeah definitely. Since i’ve waited a while now I don’t mind spending a little bit more for something “nicer”. Thing is the insurance for something like a 118d is not far off at all what it is for a 1.8 civic or a 1.9 tdi a3. Basically the quotes don’t seem to vary that much regardless of the power and engine type therefore i’d much rather spend to get a better spec car. Obviously I don’t want to get something that won’t be financially feasible to run, but if I can get the next model up for not much more than the cooking ones, then I’d much prefer that. If I could find a m47 118d for around 2k I’d be happy, the 120d are cheaper to buy but insurance dearer. A3 could be an option but dependent on the engine, don’t really see many Golfs at this price point Like others have said, you’ll need to compromise. Try and get over the ‘more modern’ feeling and don’t get wound up about spec.
A 1.6 Focus looks like a pretty ok motor to start with.
If you’re in that budget, a BMW or Alfa will ruin you.
Be prepared to travel for the right car.
There’s a lot of truth in buying on condition rather than mileage/year, too.
Girls don’t care what year your car is.
Edited by LandOTheBrave on Tuesday 13th July 12:33
You’ll get years out of that and it’ll allow you to save up for your next motor, too.
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202106304...
Cheap as chips to get serviced. Adequate go.
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