x type 2.1 v6 sport.......any good

[pattyg]

Still looking for a nice exec family saloon.

I feel that the previous generation BMW 3 series is still way overpriced.

Merc C Class is nice but has reliability/rust problems unless its 2004 on.

Saab 9-3 is ok but I don't like the very plasticy dashboard.

For about £8k I could pick up a nice 2003 2.1 with under 40k miles. Seems great value to me.

Views please

[triple7]

Hi, I own a '02 3.0ltr Sport. very happy with it. I think you'll find the 2.1 gutless and therefore a frustrating drive. Also only the 2.5 and 3.0 have the permenant 4 wheel drive (which is bullet proof) and as far as I am concerned is the main reason for buying this car. It is comfy, has some poke. Make sure you get one with all the goodies. Climate, electric everything, FULL leather and a good colour combo.

G

[triple7]

My 3.0ltr, gets about average 25mpg, which is the same for the 2.5.

The diesel would be a great car, but they are too expnsive, wouldn't spend more than £10k on one.

G

[Phil Hopkins]

The 2.1 isn't a bad car really, quicker than the diesel but the fuel economy isn't that much better than the 2.5 / 3.0. You could pick up a slightly older 2.5 for a similiar sort of money (and it will be more desirable long term because of the 4WD). Jaguar don't produce the 2.1 anymore as the market dried up for that engine when the 2.0D was launched.

If you need any help with a particular car, give me a shout and i'll gladly look into its background for you.

Phil

[pattyg]

Thanks Phil

[fwdracer]

Make sure it is a manual if you go for the smallest V6....