3-5k estate needed, with lots of space - help?
Discussion
So, I have a need for an estate, as a second car. Won't do thunderous milage, but will be needed for a few 1000 mile round trips over the next 3 months and I plan on getting rid around xmas. It will be used as a short commute car, so while diesel is preferable, it isn't a showstopper. What I would like is an auto box (other car is manual but this will be a lazy commuter), leather seats, and as big a load capacity in the back as possible.
I did want an Alfa 159SW but they just don't seem big enough in the back, so I guess I am asking, what's best right now? Been thinking about a 95 estate, or a V70, or some form of E-class Merc or 5 series? Ideally I would like it to cost between 3-5k (backup slush fund in place already!), mileage not a big issue.
I've never thought/looked into estates before but this is a real need that has popped up for the rest of this year. Not going to be a permanent resident but would be good to have a bit of luxury/fun/practicality over the next 6 months.
Best suggestions my learned fellow PH'ers?
I did want an Alfa 159SW but they just don't seem big enough in the back, so I guess I am asking, what's best right now? Been thinking about a 95 estate, or a V70, or some form of E-class Merc or 5 series? Ideally I would like it to cost between 3-5k (backup slush fund in place already!), mileage not a big issue.
I've never thought/looked into estates before but this is a real need that has popped up for the rest of this year. Not going to be a permanent resident but would be good to have a bit of luxury/fun/practicality over the next 6 months.
Best suggestions my learned fellow PH'ers?
Well I've owned E39 tourings, Saab 95 Aero Estate, Alfa 156 SW and currently have V70 D5 Auto.
DO NOT get the Alfa - there are both carp and have a tiny boot.
Bet car for long hauls is a V70 D5 Auto - much like mine. They are supreme motorway cars and although not "fun" can be flung around a bit, very sure footed.
You could have mine for less than the bottom of your budget
DO NOT get the Alfa - there are both carp and have a tiny boot.
Bet car for long hauls is a V70 D5 Auto - much like mine. They are supreme motorway cars and although not "fun" can be flung around a bit, very sure footed.
You could have mine for less than the bottom of your budget
I have a 2004 Volvo V70 T5. Far better car than I expected, not exciting but quick in a straight line and very comfortable. Quite good fun surprising people in it. 32mpg on a long run with the cruise at 70mph and the stereo is fantastic. It's hard to get very excited about it, but it really is a very good car.
Dave
Dave
carparkno1 said:
This I like. We have a Mazda 2 brand new and are astounded at its build quality, so Jap is a good call. Time to browse!
Is the 2.4 punchy enough and mid 30s mpg? Need that really.
I got mid 30's (just) on a gentle motor way run. Engine was great as it has enough torque but also quites like the revs too! Very well built and nothing went wrong untill someone decided to use it as a way of slowing down! Is the 2.4 punchy enough and mid 30s mpg? Need that really.
seats are amazingly comfy and its ful of kit! I think it looks a bit fresher than the V70 and 9-3 and isnt any smaller in the back really.Just to add! I made a bed for the back in mine for over night stays
Already some great advice thanks. I desperately wanted the 159SW (what a looker) but it wouldn't be the practical choice based on size.
So far the Honda/Volvo/Saab trio leading the line. I would like something relatively modern-looking, but at the same time a mate has a 2001 530d touring and it is an absolute joy to sit in, even if it is a bit 90s outside and in.
So far the Honda/Volvo/Saab trio leading the line. I would like something relatively modern-looking, but at the same time a mate has a 2001 530d touring and it is an absolute joy to sit in, even if it is a bit 90s outside and in.
carparkno1 said:
Already some great advice thanks. I desperately wanted the 159SW (what a looker) but it wouldn't be the practical choice based on size.....
Honestly, they are turd.Like a really fit bird with a huge dose of the mental. Alright for a few lustful weeks, then just does your head in.
dme123 said:
FWIW a colleague had an Accord with the 2.4 litre engine and I found the performance very disappointing for the fuel consumption. Smooth though, and he thrashed it mercilessly for over 100k without issue.
Id agree its not the quickest car in the world but I wouldnt say its sluggish! Hard to find anything more comfy though.
I wouldn't discount the ST220 actually ;-)
Seen a really nice A6 Avant "final edition"?!?! on Auto Trader for sub 4k that has all the trimmings, but the boot space doesn't actually look that big, maybe its just the photo's.
I also saw the Vectra has a massive load area. It wouldn't be fun but would be a lot of car for the cash, but maybe without a few mod cons?
This has certainly given me new cars to think about. Thanks!
Seen a really nice A6 Avant "final edition"?!?! on Auto Trader for sub 4k that has all the trimmings, but the boot space doesn't actually look that big, maybe its just the photo's.
I also saw the Vectra has a massive load area. It wouldn't be fun but would be a lot of car for the cash, but maybe without a few mod cons?
This has certainly given me new cars to think about. Thanks!
Do you need space and seats?
The Multipla I had was great for loads - you take the back seats out totally and you can fit a full size pallet in. 500kg payload as well I think. Not a long area though - it's 5ft square roughly. Obviously you still have three seats too. You can unbolt the passenger seat easily (4 bolts) for more length down one side but the middle seat doesn't come out very easily as all the pipes to get hot air to the back are under it. Handling is fun (wheel at each corner) and it did 50mpg give or take. Yor budget will get you one new enough to have no problems. The engine is bullet proof.
Or, if you want long space, try a Signum? Cheap as chips now, in 1.9, 2.2. or 3 litre diesel
The Multipla I had was great for loads - you take the back seats out totally and you can fit a full size pallet in. 500kg payload as well I think. Not a long area though - it's 5ft square roughly. Obviously you still have three seats too. You can unbolt the passenger seat easily (4 bolts) for more length down one side but the middle seat doesn't come out very easily as all the pipes to get hot air to the back are under it. Handling is fun (wheel at each corner) and it did 50mpg give or take. Yor budget will get you one new enough to have no problems. The engine is bullet proof.
Or, if you want long space, try a Signum? Cheap as chips now, in 1.9, 2.2. or 3 litre diesel
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