Should I buy a used Mercedes-Benz A-Class as my first car?

Would a Mercedes-Benz A-Class from circa 2005 make sense for a new driver on a budget?

Asked on 6 January 2020 by Ken Thompson

Answered by Andrew Brady
There are better first car choices. A Mercedes-Benz will be expensive to insure for a new driver - especially if they're quite young - and that generation A-Class wasn't particularly good, even when it was new. I'd look at something like a Ford Fiesta instead.
Similar questions
We're looking to insure a 17 year old driver. We are unsure which strategy to pursue, buy new - including free insurance - or buy a used car for £1000 - £2000 and take the insurance hit. What are the best...
What's the best first car for an 18 year old driver? I need something older and cheap. My budget is about £1500 - £2500. Also, how do I check if the car has any issues, i.e. outstanding finance, been involved...
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...
Related models
Much better execution of original A-Class concept. Feels far higher quality, especially inside. Easy to park.