Cheap commuter car.

Prophet · 19 Apr 2013 at 11:20

I'm interviewing at the moment and don't want to limit my distance to work because I have a thirsty car. So far the longest journey is 50 miles each way so I'm looking for something sub 3k (all I have right now) that is a compromise between mile munching ability and economy.

Don't really care what it is reliability is paramount, so something that's known for being a good running etc.

I have a 1999 Golf GTI 20v turbo at the moment, which can get upto 40mpg with no traffic on a run, but really struggles during rush hour.

Spec me :-)

Mr.Stu · 19 Apr 2013 at 11:23

Stick with the Golf until it dies. The head ache of swapping won't justify the minimal savings.

paradigm · 19 Apr 2013 at 11:25

The problem is here, that it completely depends on what kind of driving you end up doing. If it's stop-start traffic, it matters not if its petrol or diesel, both will end up being far lower than their "book" figures, and the gap between the two fuels will be exponentially smaller.

Also what kind of car? Do you need the practicality of a hatch/estate, or are you a saloon man?

Prophet · 19 Apr 2013 at 12:10

The problem with the golf is that is was a cheap fix after I gave my old company car back. It's ok at the moment but will throw bills up soon (exhaust andsuspension) so I'm trying to weigh up the potential cost.

I don't have any requirements for an estate etc. as long as it has two seats I'm good to go

paradigm · 19 Apr 2013 at 12:39

I'd run the Golf until you know what your commute will entail, then buy accordingly.

ci_newman · 19 Apr 2013 at 14:31

There is also the strong chance that a £3k car can throw up unexpected exhaust / suspension bills too. Better the devil you know etc.. 40mpg on a run is not bad at all either.