Recomendations Needed For A New Used Car. Around £600 Please Help!

[Saban]

Hi, would anyone be able recommend something for my next car? I need something cheap and reliable. I have had awful problems with my Rover 414 and once I have gotten rid of the damn thing I need an improvement!:rolleyes:

Any suggestions would be great. We have around £600-£700 and I need something that can cope with my commute up the motorway to work but is interesting enough for the OH as we will be sharing:D! The only mod-con I would really need is power steering but electric-windows etc I can miss!

I was thinking an Astra or Escort but id like to get a few opinions first?:o

Many Thanks!:T

[highguyuk]

A Mark One Peugeot 306 Turbo Diesel.

Easily cope with a commute, engines can last for miles and miles even if you buy one 100k+, interesting and enjoyable to drive!

Check out www.pug306.net for more information if needbe :)

[Graham_Devon]

I'd go for a VW Golf MK3 (93-97) diesel, or preferably a TDI. My second car is a 10 year old TDI with 120k on the clock. Starts first time every time and has never given me a problem. Happy on the motorway, happy in town, 50mpg and cheap insurance, plus cheap everything else.

Also the above 306 suggestion is a good one.

Astras and Escorts both rust out pretty easily!

[stumpjumper]

Hows abaout a Citroen Xantia Diesel. They're cheap as chips because they're not too popular and you'll get a lot of car for your money. Engines are rock solid, things to watch out for are the electrics and suspension.

[Saban]

Thank you very much guys you've given me some great ideas!

[mr_accountant]

Hows abaout a Citroen Xantia Diesel. They're cheap as chips because they're not too popular and you'll get a lot of car for your money. Engines are rock solid, things to watch out for are the electrics and suspension.

Having owned a petrol version i can vouch for the xantia. if you prefer diesel £700 will get u a 1997 (or thereabouts) MY. U should also get if you can 12m mot, so at least mechanically the car should be ok.

Re suspension just check all four corners move nice and soft (much softer than your rover!) other then that the suspension is trouble free.

Oh yes check ALL the eclectics, as its French and this is the weak point. But if all eclectics are o.k. It should prove to be comfortable, reliable and a bargain.
Insurance group is about 10, but i think it should not be much more than the rover in this respect, maybe even cheaper.

[Quinny]

My old man got a 97 Peugeot DTurbo,brand new on an R plate.

Went like the proverbial off a shovel,was well equipped with power steering,leccy windows,and a few other toys,and would regularly return 50mpg+ as well as being a very comfortable car in it's class.

If there are only 2 of you,then the 3 door will suffice,as they are easily available,however,if you have kids,then go for the slightly rarer 5 door.

You wouldn't think that a diesel car could go so quick,but believe me,with the 1.9 td lump under the bonnet,you could be in for a surprise.

I currently own a 99 406 2.0 HDi,and I love it to bits.Probably the best car I've ever owned,and in fact,am looking for a replacement car for the wifes Micra SR,and am seriously looking at a 306 TD.

As for an Astra or an Escort?

I'd rather pull my own teeth.

Ken.

[OverlandLandy]

Old Diesel Merc......they just keep going.....and going....and going.......