What To Buy
Before even thinking about what you’re going to buy, work out your budget - carefully.
Click ‘here’ for a budget planner.
Whether or not you use our budget planner, remember to include all costs. Not just the price of the car, but all the running costs - including depreciation.
If you need finance, click ‘here’ for advice and remember to include the costs in your budget.
Once you’ve got you’re budget, your job is to find the best car your money will buy. We use the word ‘job’ carefully, because it is hard work. To get the best you can, you will need to take time with research and shopping around.
Here’s a list of points to consider when making your choice:
Diesel or petrol? Consider your annual mileage and work out which is the most economical. Diesels cost more to buy and fuel, but they do more to the gallon and cost less to service. Modern diesels are smooth and comfortable drive.
Manual or automatic? It’s a personal choice. Automatics are becoming more popular and there are less reasons to buy a manual these days - other than price. However, price doesn’t usually affect the used value to a huge extent.
Space. Consider how often you take passengers. It might be less often than you think - so that sports car may be fine. If you’ve got kids and a dog, an estate might be better than a saloon. Think it through.
Young kids? Five doors will be better than three - it’s murder lifting a baby from the back of a three door. A dark interior will hide grubby finger marks.
Speed humps? Yes, speed humps. If you live in a neighbourhood with lots of them, that low slung sports car might not even get you to your house. A 4x4 might be better!
Convertible? A personal choice. Not many warm days in this country and it will cost more. But if it fits in your budget, why not? There are plenty of models with hard roofs as well.
Towing? If you tow a caravan or trailer, consider an automatic and read reviews from suitable magazines. You might need a bigger engine than normal.
Remember not to let your heart rule your head - unless your budget allows it. It’s easy to make a mistake you have to live with for years. Decide on the type of car you want and don’t allow hard talking salesmen to change your mind.
