I've just passed my test - should I trade in my car for something older but faster?

I passed my test about three months ago and currently drive a 2010 SEAT Ibiza. I want to buy some aesthetical upgrades for it such as respraying the wheels and such, however I have found a 2005 SEAT Ibiza Cupra 1.8 turbo for £2000. My current Ibiza is newer and has more features and higher quality however it annoys me that it struggles getting up to speed on slight gradients. Should I sell my current car and buy the Cupra or upgrade my current car?

Asked on 21 September 2018 by Josh Parry-Jones

Answered by Andrew Brady
This is going to sound like a real 'dad' answer, but I'd save your cash. Cosmetic upgrades to your current Ibiza will do little to improve it and could make your insurance more expensive (you MUST tell your insurance company). It might even devalue your car as second hand buyers rarely appreciate such modifications. A 2005 Ibiza will be less reliable and require more maintenance and will probably cost more to insure. Save your money, get a few years' driving experience and then look at buying something genuinely sporty, if that's what you want.
Tags: new drivers
Similar questions
Which would be the best used car for under £2k for a young driver to insure? I've looked at some 1.0L engines but some are over £3k for insurance and some are under £2k. Does it not just go on the engine...
My granddaughter has just become 17 and is learning to drive. As my wife is no longer allowed to drive we have made her car available for her to learn on but have retained ownership. My daughter has taken...
I recently passed my driving test and am looking to buy my first car. Unlike most new drivers, I am in my 40s and the car I want is a family saloon. How do I find the best value insurance in my situation?...
Related models
Nicely styled coupe-like three-door hatch. Efficient range of petrol and diesel engines. Good levels of standard equipment.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer