Alfa GT JTD, Mondeo ST TDCi or ?

[R1chy11]

I'm currently looking at the Alfa GT JTD and Mondeo ST TDCi but should I be considering anything else as well?

Budget is £4500

It must be a reasonably quick diesel that returns around 45mpg. I've picked out the above two because they are good looking cars, have climate, cruise control, leather seats etc and are a bit different. I really don't want a golf/focus etc.

Is there anything else that meets my criteria?

[tbc]

Alfa if you want something incredible to drive but don;t mind putting up with the thought that parts and servicing will send you to the poor house

[BrewsterBear]

tbc said:

Alfa if you want something incredible to drive but don;t mind putting up with the thought that parts and servicing will send you to the poor house

I have one for my commute miles at the mo and incredible is not how I'd describe the drive. They're brisk and I get 42mpg on my cross-country commute according to the computer, but they are nose heavy and not very dynamic at all. Expect to be replacing cambelts and a lot of suspension every 3 to 5 years. It doesn't go easy on the front tyres either.

They are infinitely more interesting to look at than a Mondeo, but you do pay for that in reduced efficiency and increased maintenance costs. If you're looking for a frugal car, this ain't it.

[tbc]

BrewsterBear said:

tbc said:

Alfa if you want something incredible to drive but don;t mind putting up with the thought that parts and servicing will send you to the poor house

I have one for my commute miles at the mo and incredible is not how I'd describe the drive. They're brisk and I get 42mpg on my cross-country commute according to the computer, but they are nose heavy and not very dynamic at all. Expect to be replacing cambelts and a lot of suspension every 3 to 5 years. It doesn't go easy on the front tyres either.

They are infinitely more interesting to look at than a Mondeo, but you do pay for that in reduced efficiency and increased maintenance costs. If you're looking for a frugal car, this ain't it.

the nose is were all that soul and passion is located

[R1chy11]

Sounds like the Mondeo might be the better option then. My commute isn't the best so just looking for something comfortable to drive that can get me away from roundabouts briskly.

Are there any common issues with the Mondeo?

[Defcon5]

Injectors, DMF and rear subframe bushes

[dba7108]

+1 mondeo. Had one as a company car once and they are very good to drive, loads of torque and can be picked up from £2k now.

[thebigmacmoomin]

The EGR valve can be an issue on the ST TDCi but it isnt that expensive to fix. Mine (well dads car now) went on about 35k miles but now its on 95k, it hasnt been a problem since. Got it done at an independant garage or about £220, Ford was a lot more expensive.

Defcon5 said:

Injectors, DMF and rear subframe bushes

Never had those issues in 95k miles but the rear bumper is a bit saggy now (another common issue). Ours is a '06 facelift.

[rfn]

I had an ST TDCi... costs and associated other figures and viewpoints are in my profile!
Common faults: injectors, Dual Mass Flywheel, EGR valves, and drooping rear bumpers.

It is however, a very competent and well balanced vehicle, and I nearly bought another one last year when I needed an economical commuter again.

Gratuitous shot of mine:

[HustleRussell]

The Mondeo undoubtedly the better driver's car, parts are cheaper and it'll probably be more reliable.