Fun Car Under 10K

[Tallerton12]

Looking at changing my 2.0 litre TT for something a bit more powerful, its fun but doesnt quite scratch my itch.

I'm looking for some recommendations for something that has good power, reasonable miles (up to 85k) and sounds nice so really a petrol is a must.

I don't mind if it a manual or an auto.

I have around 10k to spend.

I was thinking maybe a Focus ST-3, but not sure what they are like reliability wise?

Thanks

Edited by Tallerton12 on Monday 27th January 12:46

[Belle427]

The 5 cylinder ST would be a nice car but very difficult to find a good one, worth seeking out for that engine alone. You will get the odd enthusiast car popping up from time to time.
The engines do need to be looked after though, i think the biggest issue is the overheating issues leading to cracked liners, if you google block mod you can read about it.

[Mr Tidy]

A Volvo C30 might be another option as some of them had the same engine as the focus ST.

Or maybe a BMW 330i Coupe or Mercedes CLK?

[Jimjimhim]

A Megane RS250 would be the most fun choice.

[ZX10R NIN]

If you want a good steer that's also got a fair bit of go then imo there are two contenders.

Astra GTC VXR:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202412317...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202305187...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202405029...

The other is the Megane RS with the Cup Chassis:

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202501148...

The hard bit will be finding a Cup/Cup chassis car.

The Focus ST is a very good car but these two are a clear step ahead.

[ChrisH72]

If you can stretch the budget a little then an M235i is doable.

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2025011480...

Plenty of power and a nice soundtrack.

[griffter]

ChrisH72 said:

If you can stretch the budget a little then an M235i is doable.

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2025011480...

Plenty of power and a nice soundtrack.

That looks good! They’re few and far between below £10k but they do crop up. Many have cat markers so be careful.
I just picked up a 100k mile manual for £10k. Working through a few niggles with the dealer, but just older car stuff. I absolute love it!

Another one here:

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/256711573389