What car for approx 2k? Looking for something nice but reliable

Janesy B · 20 Jun 2012 at 13:15

poker_999 said:
well i helping him by suggesting he gets a car with solid build quality rather than a car that was built to a cost

Was the E28 made out of metal that doesn't rust and rubber bushes that don't perish with age?

-westy- · 20 Jun 2012 at 13:26

robj20 said:
the mondeo will cost more to buy and maintain

No it won't. On the contrary, my girlfriend's 1.6 Focus Zetec cost £2300, my old Mondeo a grand. The Mondeo was 18 months newer, and much better specced (Zetec vs Ghia X).

Jonny · 20 Jun 2012 at 22:11

I didn't realise what I would have started here! Thanks for all your help, I think I'm going to go for a focus but if I see a well specced Mondeo I might change my mind.

DaveyD · 21 Jun 2012 at 09:24

opstrat said:
my mondy had that dmf problem, went through 2 starter motors before getting rid of it.

after that i will never recomend one to anyone.

And I'd probably echo that if we were talking about getting a 2.0 TDCi, but the 2.0 petrols are a hell of a lot more reliable. If you took the engine out of the equation, what is wrong with the Mondeo?

Jonny · 21 Jun 2012 at 14:10

The car dealers near work has a 52 plate BMW316ti SE compact up for £2995 but he's offered £2,700 with a years MOT.

It has done 84k miles and has a FSH - the bodywork appears to be in good condition and I have found an insurance quote I am happy with......any thoughts on this or what I should check?

Thanks

paradigm · 21 Jun 2012 at 14:19

What age?

The fact that you sai 316i and not Ti suggests that it's an E36, in which case, avoid.

Jonny · 21 Jun 2012 at 14:20

Sorry I missed the obvious stuff out - cheeky edit done! It is a Ti and is on a 52 plate

paradigm · 21 Jun 2012 at 14:25

Been looking at these recently for the GF, and so far all I've managed to ascertain is the usual E46 problems (rubbish cooling system, rust on the bootlid, random electrical problems, funny noises from engine).

Make sure you hear it started from cold (not warm), and listen for any rattly/knocking noises as this could signify that the VANOS is on the way out.

Jonny · 21 Jun 2012 at 14:31

There was also an Alfa Romeo Lusso 147 Twin Spark (1.6 engine) on a 53 plate. Mot till March and tax till end of Sept. 48k miles - has anyone got any experience with these?

Insurance is pretty much the same for both