Help Honda Jazz or Mercedes Benz A class 160 Auto??

krissy08

I would like to buy a good automatic car that can fit my small family of 4. I can't make up my mind which would be better off between the 2 cars above.

I am looking to use the car for about 5 years and I am interested in which would hold it's value for longer as I have seen a 2009 reg Honda Jazz with just 3000 miles on the clock for 7500 pounds and a 2008 benz with 60000 miles on the clock and another with 19000 miles but 2007 reg both for 6500 pounds.

is the Honda Jazz woth spending 1000 pounds more on?

Any advice on which auto car is actually better is very welcome. I am so confused
Thanks guys.

vikingaero

Jazz every time, althought it may be an automated manual and you should test drive it to ensure you are happy. The auto on the Merc will most likely burn out it's valve body in the gearbox in 20-60k.

marlot

I'd pay the extra for the Jazz. The merc will cost you a lot more for servicing over its life. Jazz rarely give any issues.

anotherbaldrick

I would not touch a high mileage Merc "A" class with it's CVT transmission with a barge pole . I have owned a new one and 18 months was enough for me.

daveyjp

Be very careful with the Jazz. The original had a CVT auto box which was fine. With the new model they changed the CVT to an automated manual to reduce emissions and it was an absolute dog and should be avoided. Realising their error then went back to a CVT.

The change from auto manual to CVT was in 2008/9 so ensure the auto is a CVT and dont believe a salesman as they won't know. Get the VIN and check with Honda UK which box is fitted.

krissy08

Thank you so much, it looks like the Jazz is ahead on points (I will need to check the it's a CVT) Any more tips welcome.
Did I mention I am after the diesel for each?

daveyjp

Honda don't do a diesel Jazz. Petrol is very economical so no need.

krissy08

I am very grateful for all the replies. I am now intently searching for my honda jazz and have come across one that looks good.
It's a Honda Jazz 1.4 I-VTEC ES I-shift. I am a bit concerned about daveyjps comments above. Is this a good one? It doesn't say CVT.

oldagetraveller

Honda have learned a bit of sense and gone back to a CVT Jazz. I don't know when this happened but the automated manual is no longer an option - new. Their website definitely states CVT as the alternative to manual.
They've possibly listened to customer complaints about these generally useless automated manual boxes.
Toyota have also dumped their rubbish MMT for a CVT in the Mk 3 Yaris.
I-shift is the one to avoid, it's not the CVT. Have a LONG test drive though, before deciding, over a route of your choice ensuring there are hills, lots of roundabouts and junctions. The ecu that controls gearchanging is decidedly "thick" and makes the most illogical decisions!

krissy08

and are Cat D of the honda jazz an absolute no no.

marlot

Cat D means its been a write off. It will probably cost you more to insure, and you should be paying quite a bit less for it. You also need to be sure its been repaired properly.