Advice on possible new car

Sharra

HI
I'm wondering if anyone can give me some advice.
I need to buy a new car, my ideal was a small hatchback - then at work today in the car park I saw a Rover 214si 16v P reg car for £1300, its a 1600 and has only done 24k apparently as before the current owner had it, it was owned by a lady who didnt really drive it. There is a small dent in the front wing where someone reversed into her.
I asked a few questions about mpg etc and think I beleive the lady as I caught her unawares as she was getting her kiddie out the car.
I'm going to call her tonight.
But is there anything I should be aware of before buying this kind of car?
Any specifics I should ask the owner? Things to look out for?
Any advice really appreciated as this whole car buying thing scares me silly!
Many thanks
Sharra

highguyuk

https://www.honestjohn.com - lots of advice about cars to be had over there.

https://www.wisebuyers.co.uk - Check out the going price.
https://www.parkers.co.uk - Check out the price 'ere too!

24k is VERY VERY low mileage, almost suspiciously low. The average R reg mileage off the top of my head is 80k ... P reg probably 85k-90k.

1600 engine means higher tax bracket.
Do an insure quote at https://www.confused.com. Might be better buying something £100 cheaper if it saves you £200-300 on insurance.

jjames_3

The 214si is the 1400 engine.

The car is too expensive, regardless of mileage. I'd put the value at £700 tops, especially if it has a dent.

The 1400 K-series isn't the best engine and is prone to overheating and head gasket failures. I'd make damn sure the car has been serviced correctly -- even at an average mileage of 2.5K a year the car will need a full service and oil change every 12 months. Without that, walk away, quickly.